Students at Sherman Central School had the opportunity to do just that, as well as bounce, joust, get faces painted, navigate an obstacle course, and eat hot dogs at the Carnival Fun Fair.

The end-of-year carnival was held at the Sherman football field. Not only were there a plethora of fun activities, but several organizations, such as the Sheriff’s Department, Fire Department, Girl Scouts of Western New York and Minerva Library, were on hand to share information about their activities.

And as if that weren’t enough, there was also a petting zoo, tractor-drawn wagon rides, games, popcorn and hot dogs, and great music for all to enjoy. “I’m having a great time,” said Heather Chotra, Community Engagement Specialist for the Girl Scouts of Western New York. “I was just telling someone that this is one of the best events I’ve ever done. I love to see the community engaged like this.”

The idea of a carnival has become popular with school districts. As the website Verywell Family states: “Carnivals can be a welcoming gesture that can bring all ages to the school to see the building and perhaps meet teachers and students. The idea is to provide a fun event while highlighting the value the school provides to the community.”

Students who attended the Carnival Fun Fair at Sherman School took advantage of face painting.

In this case, however, the idea for an end-of-year carnival came from the district’s Shared Decision Making team which is composed of parents, staff, and administrators, said Sherman principal Leslie Melquist. “We discussed the idea of having an ‘End of the Year’ family event. The idea of a carnival was generated from that discussion.”

Despite the large scope of the event, Melquist said it was not hard to put it together. “There were many people who made this event possible,” she said. “Some assisted with the planning process, some with set-up, and many who helped by volunteering their time to work the carnival. It was definitely a team effort!”

Melquist said the school reached out to local organizations to see if they would like to take part in the carnival. “We specifically looked at organizations who may have had summer programs, or informational programs to share with families. We are very grateful for all of the organizations who participated,” she said. “A special thanks goes to our PTSO who helped provide a large amount of money to fund the event. We also want to thank the Ripley Hose Company who donated 10 cases of water.”

The organizations who were represented seemed to be enjoying the carnival as well. Cindy Sears, who represented the Minerva Library said she was having a great time and many people had stopped by to learn more about Sherman’s library. “It’s really been great,” she said. “I would like to say thanks to the school for including us.”

Will the carnival be an event that is repeated next year? Melquist said she feels that is quite possible. “All of the families really seemed to enjoy it, and the kids were very appreciative,” she said. “I would love to see this become an annual event.”

The jousting inflatable was a favorite during the Carnival Fun Fair at Sherman School