Auction Gala

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Peruse our exciting 2024 lineup!

Click on the right corner of the blue bar to see the live item details.

1. Fly Away to the San Juans

A Unique Experience for Two! Perfect for the aviation enthusiast or anyone who wants an extraordinary perspective of our offshore island neighbors. David Morse will whisk you and your guest away for a flight around the islands, landing in RocheHarbor. You will enjoy a lovely dinner at McMillin’s Dining Room, then watch the sunset over the islands on your flight back to Bellingham. This package includes:

  • Flight on a seaplane from Bellingham to RocheHarbor on San Juan Island
  • $200 gift certificate at McMillin’s Dining Room inRoche Harbor Resort
  • Available May – July 2024, weeknights only, on a mutually agreeable date

Donated by: David & Heather Morse

2. Ben Mann Live Painting

Ben Mann is a Bellingham native. Identifying as aVisual Artist, he allows for the widest spectrum of creativity and employability throughout his thirty years of creating illustrative art. You can find his art in restaurants throughout Bellingham, his books in bookstores, and his murals on city utility boxes. He is well known for his colorful paintings that capture the life and emery of the scene he depicts. The painting created for the evening is one of a kind. The lucky winner of Ben’s painting will receive a personalized addition to the artwork.This package includes:

  • A 36” x 48” landscape painting of Bellingham
  • One additional hour with Ben Mann to have your painting adorned to your wishes

Donated by: Ben Mann and Friends of theFranklin Academy

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3. Experience Scottsdale

Come for the sun and stay for the fun at this spacious, four-bedroom getaway just minutes from the heart of downtown Scottsdale. Inside this home, you’ll be treated to a bright and open great room shared by a high-end, recently updated kitchen, dining table with seating for eight, and a luxurious, beautifully furnished living area. This property comes to life outside with a large, enclosed yard, a fully furnished patio, a sparkling pool, a diving board, anew gas grill, and a soothing private hot tub. Plus, you won’t have to worry about the kiddos, as there are pool toys and a safety fence around the water for your peace of mind. Located near the desirable Kierland and Paradise Valley areas, you’ll be just a few short miles away from top-notch restaurants, bars, and the beautiful outdoor shopping at Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter. This package includes:

  • Four nights at the Hansen’s beautiful Scottsdale, AZ home
  • Mutually agreeable dates before January 28th, 2025

Donated by: Natural Way Chiropractic and Massage, Dr. Eddie & Rhonda Hansen

4. Big Fish on the Bay

This is an excellent package for any sports fisherman or a fun day on the water with the family. Tom Jentz, Franklin Academy dad, will take the winning bidder and three lucky guests out on his 32-foot Targa, custom-built for him in Finland. It has a nice cruising speed of 40 knots. Timing is flexible; the winner can arrange directly with the donor for either winter or summer salmon run. This package includes:

  • One 10-hour fishing excursion on the donor’s boat for up to four (4) people
  • All gear, rods, fishing equipment provided by the donor
  • Includes food, beverages, and fine cigars
  • Mutually agreeable dates

Donated by: Tom & Sara Jentz

5. Frost Yourself in Luxury

Treat yourself to something beautiful to begin the year. Take home these 14k white gold, inside out, oval hoop earrings, featuring 1.50 carats of diamonds, a true symbol of elegance and sophistication. Neeter House of Jewelry has been part of Bellingham’s community since 1988. Founder John Neeter is third generation in the jewelry industry with the vision of bringing luxury to our community. This package includes:

  • One pair of 14K white gold diamond hoop earrings

Donated by: Neeter House of Luxury

6. Sun and Sand in Captivating Cabo

Start your day with unobstructed views of glorious sunrises at this luxurious condo in Casa del Mar, Cabo Real! Located on the Sea of Cortez, the condo is spacious, well-maintained, recently updated, and comfortable for four guests. The bedrooms and living area feature a beach view, and a walkout patio provides immediate access to the beautiful pools and beach. Fine restaurants and other amenities are available to condo guests. Golfing, fishing, and other recreational outings are easy to arrange locally. This package includes:

  • One week stay in a 2-bedroom condo Casa del Mar
  • Maximum number of guests is four (4) people + 1 young child
  • Mutually agreeable dates, excluding Christmas Break and Spring Break, subject to availability

Donated by: D.C. Morse, JR & Jan Marchbanks

7. Adventure at the End of the World – Patagonia Awaits

Patagonia, on South America’s southern frontier, is where nature grows wild, barren, and beautiful. The sight of the land’s jagged peaks, pristine rivers, and dusty backwater oases will inspire and enthrall you. This 7 day/6 night trip for two (2) people is the perfect way to see Patagonia. Once you land in Buenos Aires ,you will have two nights to explore the sights and sounds of Argentina’s bustling capital city from your home base at one of the city’s premier Wyndham properties. You will make your way down, via a short flight, to Ushuaia, the world’s most southernmost city! Ushuaia is located on the famous Beagle Channel, between the Martial Range and the end of the world! You will be met at the airport by private car and whisked away to the luxurious Arakur Resort for a day of self-guided exploration. Day 2, you travel by private car to Ushuaia National Park for a 3 hour trek along the coastal path and lunch by Roca Lake, followed by a paddle down the Lapataia river before your private car returns you to your resort. Day 3 holds a canoeing adventure along the Lasiphashaj river, down to the sea, and the Haberton Ranch. A motorboat will ferry you to Martillo Island where you can view the penguins at their breeding site. Then off to a fantastic lunch on Gable Island and a trek through the coastal forest before returning to your hotel. OnDay 4, your private driver will collect you at your hotel and take you back to the airport. If you want to extend your trip, you can. There are many wonderful experiences to take advantage of in the area: perhaps book a sailing trip, a glacier climb or a train ride to the Fin del Mundo. Spend a final night in Buenos Aires before heading home, or onto your next adventure! This package includes:

  • $700 gift card to Wyndham hotels to book your 3 nights in Buenos Aires
  • Luxury 3 night trip in Ushuaia, Patagonia including hotel, activities, and breakfast/lunch. Airfares not included.
  • The package is for two (2) people but the tour provider can add guests over the age of 5 yrs. old, at additional cost, should you want to take your kids along!

Donated by: Robin Foote & Tom Little

8. Mt. Baker Modern Scandinavian Stay & Slopes

The modern Scandinavian-inspired cabin offers a unique and tranquil escape on its secluded 20-acre property, boasting 600 feet of Nooksack river frontage and less than an hour drive to the renowned Mt Baker Ski Area. With direct access to the river and the beauty of 20 acres to explore, you’ll feel truly immersed in nature. The property also abuts thousands of acres of DNR land, offering even more opportunities for outdoor adventures like an abundance of local hikes, biking trails, and fly fishing access at your private riverfront beach! Take advantage of the peaceful ambiance and spend your evenings stargazing or indulging in the warmth of the inviting hot tub. This package includes:

  • 5-day/4-night stay for eight (8) people at Avlägsen Chalet in Deming, WA
  • Hot Tub on site for relaxing
  • Private 20-acre property with direct riverfront access
  • Two (2) Adult Mt Baker Daily Lift Tickets
  • Two (2) Youth Mt Baker Daily Lift Tickets
  • To be used by December 31, 2024 (availability based on Airbnb calendar)

Donated by Courtney and Matt Conner

9. Bring out the Bubbly: Annual Wine Dinner at the Kaiser’s Home!

This year, we celebrate the school’s 50th Anniversary. To mark the occasion, this year’s exclusive Wine Dinner at Nick and Deborah Kaiser’s home will feature glorious Champagnes – perfect to Fête the many years of growth and success the school has achieved! Indulge in a luxurious evening of bubbly and gastronomic delights at our Annual Wine Dinner – this year featuring exceptional Champagnes. Join us for an unforgettable affair as we take a voyage across the sparkling sky, tasting some of the world’s finest Champagnes. The wines will be paired with an exquisite menu, specifically suited to the Champagne selections. Every sip and bite will transport you to the heart of Champagne country. This event may be our final wine dinner. It is surely an event not to be missed as we celebrate all our beloved school has accomplished.

Date: Saturday, May 4th, 2024

Location:Nick & Deborah Kaiser’s Chuckanut Point Road home

There are only 32 seats available at the dinner and tickets are sold by the seat. This package includes:

  • One ticket to the Champagne Dinner

Donated by: Nick & Deborah Kaiser

10. Riders Unite: Your Evil Offering Awaits

Bellingham, WA hosts some of the best mountain bike trails in the world. Take advantage of those sweet tracks on The Dark Lord of Singletrack, The OfferingLS from Evil Bikes. Designed and hand-assembled right here in Bellingham, each Evil Bike is a work of art. If you want a Swiss-Army-Bike to cover all the fun, the Offering LS is your ride. Redline the pedals to keep pace with the lycra squad or stack it on the lift for a proper park day. Slotted between our shred country Following and stone-splitting Wreckoning, theOffering fits below the banner of all-mountain machine. This middle child will impress the neighbors while feeding them heaps of dirt. This package includes:

  • Evil Offering LS: A carbon frame with 140mm of rear travel paired with a 150-160mm fork. Rollingon 29” wheels adorned with the highest quality components in the biz.
  • Component Highlights: Rock Shox UltimateSuspension, Sram GX drivetrain, Sram Code RSC Brakes, Industry Nine Enduro S Wheel Set, and a BikeYoke dropper post.
  • Winner picks their poison: Reigning Blood or Absinth colorway, and their proper frame size.
  • Must choose your bike and pick up by 3/27/2024

Donated by: Evil Bikes

11. You got a Fast Car and a Ticket to Sagecliffe

Drive a fabulous Porsche to your SageCliffe Resort and Spa stay in Quincy, WA. Porsche Seattle North, one of the school’s longtime supporters, will provide a Porsche for your enjoyment as you cruise away to your weekend for two. Pick up your car on a Friday and drive away for an amazing visit to SageCliffe Resort & Spa in Quincy, WA. The SageCliffe is set amidst the stunning scenery of the Columbia River Gorge. You will be enveloped in the luxury of either a Cavern Room or a Cliffe House Suite. Dine at the award-winning, on-site Tendrils Restaurant, lounge by the heated pool, take a ride on the complimentary e-bikes, hike the local wine trails, or visit the legendary Cave B Estate Winery next door.This package includes:

  • Use of a Porsche for a weekend; from Friday to Sunday afternoon
  • Mutually agreeable model, depending on availability
  • Two-night stay at The SageCliffe Resort and Spa in either a Cavern Room or a Cliffe House Suite
  • $200 gift certificate for use at the Spa at SageCliffe or at Tendrils restaurant
  • Mutually agreeable dates before December 31, 2024; not available on weekends when there is a large live music event at the Gorge Amphitheater

Donated by: Porsche Seattle North and Salim & Nadia Boulos

12. All-Inclusive Opulence at Sointula Lodge

Sointula Lodge is a remote wilderness resort off Northern Vancouver Island where luxury and relaxation await you. You can fish the beautiful, calm waters of BC’s Inside Passage for salmon, halibut and other local species of cold-water fish in our enclosed cabin boats. Or you may select the wilderness tour where you will tour the area on our boats viewing the local marine wildlife including humpback and orca whales, seals, sea otters and other marine wildlife. You might also see black bears on beaches and an array of sea birds. You will stay in our log or cedar cabins with views of beautiful Vancouver Island. Sointula Lodge is a unique and picturesque wilderness retreat featuring deluxe dining, exceptional service, amazing scenery, fun and adventure… a vacation of a lifetime!

World-class fishing, calm, peaceful waters, and bountiful wildlife surround the 38-acre resort. After a day of fishing and wildlife viewing, enjoy 4-course dinners and a fire by the beach, and afterwards relax in our hot tub as you enjoy the sunset at this magical location. This trip is perfect for all… men, women, children, families, corporate groups and friends. All-Inclusive Opulence at Sointula Lodge

This package includes:

  • All-inclusive trip for two (2) at Sointula Lodge valued at $10,000.00 USD for the 2024 summer season. (Blackout dates apply- booking applicable for June 2024 or late August 2024)
  • Four-day/Three-night trip includes 3 days fully-guided fishing or wilderness trip (2 full days and 2 half days) in our new 27’ North River boats with enclosed cabins and bathrooms, 3 or 4 guests per boat.
  • Lodging in the cedar or log cabins with private baths (2 people per cabin)
  • All meals including 4-course dinners, Beach Bistro and the “Burger Boat”
  • All liquor and fine wines included
  • All your catch will be packaged and frozen to transport home with you
  • All gear you need while at the lodge including raincoat, rain pants and rubber boots

Donated By: Sointula Lodge – Bruce & Lisa Barlean

13. Cohiba Cuban Crazy: The Ferrari of Cigars

It is well known, at least in cigar circles, that the Cuban cigar brand, Cohiba, was created in 1966 for Fidel Castro and only made available as gifts to visiting diplomats and dignitaries. In true James Bond–like fashion, for years Cohiba cigars were made solely by women in a top-secret location, the now famous El Laguito factory. The tobacco is the best available from the premium Vuelta Abajo region. The Seco & Ligero filler leaf is given an exclusive third fermentation. These rare and beloved cigars increase in value as the various tobacco flavors blend over time. Like wine, aging only improves them. This package includes:

  • (1) 2004 Cohiba Sublime limited edition cigar
  • (25) Cohiba Cuban 1-6 Siglo series cigars
  • Humidor, cutter, and Jet flame lighter

Donated by Tom Jentz

14. Raise the Paddle for the Future of Franklin

Fifty years ago, our dedicated and visionary founders started a small school in a church basement. Over the years that school has grown into the thriving, locally celebrated, internationally recognized, and fully accredited STEM school we are here to support this evening. What was once merely an idea has now made a life-altering impact on the lives of countless students who will be our future leaders and innovators. Our infrastructure has nearly reached max capacity, yet the desire for a Franklin education grows beyond our ability to fill the demand. We are looking ahead to the promises a STEM-accredited school makes to its students. We are committed to providing our students with the best educators, cutting-edge technology and resources, exciting programs and facilities. We invite you to become part of the next wave of visionaries. Those who see the steps necessary for a bright and fruitful future for the school and our community. All funds raised in this special Future of Franklin Raise the Paddle will support our mission to remain a STEM school of distinction, with an incomparable STEM based facility, curriculum, small class sizes, and a community-oriented environment where curiosity is met and encouraged, and hearts are nurtured and protected. A generous donor is offering to match 100% of the proceeds raised for this cause. Please consider lending your support to your children and our school’s future!

15. Mariners Spring Training and Camelback Mountain House

Pack your sunscreen and grab three of your closest baseball fans for a long weekend of Mariners Spring Training baseball in the beautiful Valley of the Sun –Phoenix, Arizona. Cactus League Spring Training is the perfect opportunity to get up close and personal with your favorite MLB players while also escaping the mid-winter blues. Along with tickets to two separate training games, your trip includes a four-night stay in luxury accommodations at the Camelback Mountain home. This five bedroom, four bathroom home is nestled at the base of the iconic Camelback Mountain with stunning views of the valley and city of Phoenix. This special location is twenty minutes from Sky Harbor International Airport, and less than 10 minutes from Old Town Scottsdale, Camelback hiking, golf, world-class shopping and restaurants, and more. This package includes:

  • Four (4) tickets to Seattle Mariners Spring Training game on Saturday, March 23, 2024
  • Four (4) tickets to Seattle Mariners Spring Training game on Sunday, March 24, 2024
  • Tickets are for the final weekend of the 2024 Spring Training Season and can only be used on the specified dates.
  • Four (4) night stay in the beautiful Camelback Mountain home, March 21-25, 2024

Donated by: Craig & Heidi Trudgeon

16. Have a Hootin’ & Hollerin’ Good Time! Wild West Shooting & BBQ at Camp Saturna

Camp Saturna is a 133-acre environmental education camp located at the north end of SilverLake in Whatcom County. No matter the season, it is the perfect setting for a fantastic gathering. On Saturday, June 8, 2024, you will play host to up to 20 guests at the camp for a day filled with adventure and great food. Instructors from the Custer Firearms Training Academy will guide you through shooting a variety of weapons, including pistols and rifles on our shooting range; while our Archery range will host an instructor ready to teach you how to hit your target every time! After your shooting experience, enjoy a bountiful Texas-style barbeque lunch provided by Outlaws BBQ, a local company run by TFA parent Eric Cryder. Following lunch, TFA dad Corporal Aaron Collins of the 2nd Ranger Battalion, will guide your group through our woodland challenge course – get ready to use both your brains and your brawn to get your team through various challenges. This day is a great opportunity to experience fun and adventure – bring your family and friends for a fantastic day of good shooting, great food, and adventure! This package includes:

  • Full Day Camp Saturna Experience including shooting at our pistol and archery ranges, BBQ lunch and the challenge course.
  • Up to 20 participants, all participants must be over 12 yrs of age and anyone under 18 must have their parent with them.
  • You may bring your own firearms and/or archery gear with you if you choose or they will be provided for you.
  • Date is Saturday June 8, 2024, from 9am – 4pm.

Donated by: Camp Saturna and Custer Firearms Training Academy

17. The Ultimate Washington Football Package

We are excited to present the Ultimate Football Experience for Husky and Seahawks fans once again! Experience the thrill of Seattle’s finest football teams in one weekend. First, join the University of Washington Huskies on Saturday for an action-packed home game at Husky Stadium. On Sunday, be the “12th Man” as you cheer on our Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. On Saturday evening between the games, you will stay at the Inn at the Washington Athletic Club, a full-service private club in the heart of downtown Seattle. This is a truly unique package for people who love the game and value a special experience. This package includes:

  • Four (4) tickets to one Husky football game, on the 100 level at the 45-yard line of Husky Stadium (mutually agreeable dates)
  • Four (4) tickets to the Seattle Seahawks game on the 45-yard line of Lumen Field, 200 Club Level
  • Parking passes for both games
  • Two rooms for one night at the Inn at the Washington Athletic Club, an exclusive private club hotel in the heart of downtown Seattle.

Donated by: Emily & John Mitchell and Mimi & John Ferlin

18. VIP Parking at Markell and Robin Hall

Robin Hall – 3 Spaces Available

The school parking lot is busier than ever! Spaces are scarce during peak times, so secure your front row parking spot for the 2024-2025 school year now! No more worries about rain ruining homework projects or kids running into traffic. Your spot is just outside the front door, waiting for your car every morning and afternoon. This package includes:

  • One VIP Parking Space in front of Franklin Academy Robin Hall for the 2024-25 school year
  • “Reserved Parking” sign customized with your name to mark your space

Markell Hall – 4 Spaces Available

These highly coveted reserved parking spaces in front of the main entrance could be yours for the 2024-2025 school year. No more parking in the back lot or down the street for sporting events and teacher conferences. No more trying to maneuver around parents who idle in front of the entrance.This package includes:

  • One VIP Parking Space in front of Franklin Academy Markell Hall for the 2024-2025 school year
  • “Reserved Parking” sign customized with your name to mark your space

Donated by: The Franklin Academy

19. Head of School Pacific Northwest Dinner

You’re invited to Head of School Gretchen Bucsko’s home for a special Pacific Northwest feast! This summer, Gretchen and Blaise welcome ten guests and their children for a dinner of sumptuous seasonal delicacies, including Gretchen’s famous lemon and shallot grilled Alaskan salmon. Enjoy crafted cocktails and homemade appetizers in the garden, followed by a delicious spread featuring regional delights like seared crab cakes, juicy blackberries with tender wild greens, and foraged mushroom risotto. As the late summer sun sets behind the trees and the mountains gather shadows in the distance, enjoy local coffee and a sweet dessert in the company of friends – We look forward to hosting you! Must take place in summer 2024 on a mutually agreeable date. This package includes:

  • A dinner with the Bucskos for 10 people, sold to one buyer, children welcome

Donated by: Gretchen & Blaise Bucsko

20. Wine Taste and Tour in Zillah

A Yakima Valley Wine Tasting Weekend for four(4), featuring Whitman Hill Winery. Located in the foothills just north of Zillah, WA, Whitman Hill Winery has partnered with its neighbors to bring you this one-of-a-kind wine tasting experience in the heart of Washington wine country. Proprietors Scott and Denise Whitman invite a party of four (4) to come taste their premium handcrafted wines, tour their estate vineyard, and relish in the beauty of theYakima Valley, with views of Mt Adams and Mt Rainier. This exclusive wine tasting weekend will include two nights lodging for four people in Zillah at a 3 bedroom, 2 bath Airbnb, just minutes from the winery. A first-time offered wine blending experience, proprietor/winemaker Scott Whitman will help you through composing your own unique bottle of red wine to take home. You will also receive VIP wine tastings at two other neighboring wineries of your choice. Gift cards for some of the best restaurants in the Yakima Valley are also included to make your weekend truly one to remember! This package includes:

  • Whitman Hill VIP Wine Tasting Experience for four (4) – a private tour of the vineyards and tasting of their exceptional wines
  • A blending experience for four (4) at Whitman Hill Winery, which includes a bottle of your own uniquely created red wine
  • VIP Tastings for four (4) people at two other neighboring wineries of your choice
  • Two nights lodging at a 3 bed/2 bath Airbnb
  • $150 gift card to Waterfire Restaurant & Bar
  • $150 gift card to Canyon River Grill
  • $50 gift card to Cafe 11th Avenue for breakfast or lunch

Donated by: Whitman Hill Winery, Scott & Denise Whitman

21. Game Time, Play Time in Las Vegas for 4

Experience just the right amount of wrong in this luxury Las Vegas and Raiders Football package for a group of four (4)! Choose your vacation dates around the Raider’s schedule to play either the Kansas CityChiefs, the LA Chargers, or the Denver Broncos in the 2024 season. Enjoy a 2-night stay at any MGM Hotel (Cosmopolitan, ARIA, Mandalay Bay, etc.) During the day, relax and hit a round at Top Golf and enjoy all the offerings of Las Vegas. In the evening, catch a show and treat yourself to a fabulous meal at the world-renown Water Grill Restaurant. This package includes:

  • $1300 gift card for any MGM Hotel
  • $250 gift card for Top Golf
  • Four (4) tickets to a Raiders home game against either the Kansas City Chiefs, LA Chargers, or Denver Broncos (set dates)
  • $400 Water Grill Restaurant gift card

Donated by: Chris & Christy Fankhauser and Antonia & Jeff Holmes

22. Beach Vacation for Twelve (12) on Beautiful Pawleys Island

Spend a week among the famous beaches and sand dunes in Pawleys Island, South Carolina. This beautiful 5 bed/4 bath beachfront home is fully situated to make your getaway as comfortable as possible. Just steps from the ocean, you can spend your days in the sun and surf, or looking for sharks teeth on the beach. For a change of scenery, checkout the local Brook green Gardens, or take a drive to visit Myrtle beach (45 min.) or Charleston (1 hr.) for amazing food and historic ambiance. This is a perfect end-of-summer week away to spend with family and friends, commemorating the season. This package includes:

  • Beachfront home on Pawleys Island, SC
  • Available 8/17/24 – 8/24/24, dates non-negotiable
  • Linens and cleaning fees extra
  • Airfare not included; fly directly to Charleston or connect through Myrtle Beach

Donated by: Emily & John Mitchell

23. Eliza Island Crabbing Excursion

Discover the enchanting beauty of Eliza Island with our exclusive crabbing excursion for six (6) lucky individuals. This one-of-a-kind experience promises a day filled with adventure, relaxation, and delectable delights. You can engage in the art of crab pulling, joining in the experience or letting us clean on your behalf. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon and witness the mesmerizing sunset on our secluded beach, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Explore the island’s coastline with complimentary kayaks, paddle boards, or simply unwind on the pristine beach. Cap off the evening with an exceptional feast of the day’s fresh caught crab, charcuterie, fine wines, and cider. This extraordinary package offers an exquisite blend of nature, adventure, and culinary delights. Live generously for an unforgettable day, creating lasting memories for all. This package includes:

  • Scenic boat ride from Squalicum Harbor to Eliza Island, a private island oasis available by invitation only
  • Lessons in crab pulling and cleaning (if desired)
  • Equipment for exploring and entertainment provided
  • All food and alcohol included
  • Choose either Jul 27, Aug 17, or Aug 24, 2024. Must secure date by Feb 28, 2024.

Donated by: Brandi & Jason Coplen and Kyle & Tracie Gulit

24. Ready, Set, Explore LEGOLAND San Diego

For those who don’t know, The Franklin Academy middle schoolers teamed up with Lego Masters in 2024. To celebrate, we’re excited to present you with a trip for four (4) to LEGOLAND San Diego. This family vacation, filled with creativity, excitement, and fun, is sure to bring out the kid in everyone. Enjoy a 3-night stay at the LEGOLAND Castle Hotel, partaking in a castle-wide scavenger hunt, heated pool, and outdoor movies at the Lego cinema. Spend your days taking advantage of the LEGOLAND Theme Park, Water Park, and Sea Life Aquarium with included 2-day park hopper passes. Reinforce the STEM education and immerse yourself in the whimsy of childhood in sunny San Diego this year! This package includes:

  • 4-day/3-night stay at the LEGOLAND Castle
  • 2-day park hopper passes for four (4)
  • Included breakfast at the hotel, themed rooms, and separate kids sleeping area
  • Airfare not included

Donated by: The Jansen Family

25. Raise the Paddle for Tuition Assistance

At the Franklin Academy, we offer a vibrant learning environment where we intensively prepare scholars to be leaders. We teach a variety of subjects, focusing on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. We provide the personalized education that each student needs to excel.An economically diverse and inclusive community at The Franklin Academy furthers our mission. Not all families can pay full tuition. To accommodate families who need assistance, The Franklin Academy sets funds aside to provide grants to help more students meet the tuition requirement. The money in this fund does not come from operating revenue, only from donations made for this specific purpose. Without this help, many great students would be unable to attend our amazing school. Approximately 25% of our students receive tuition assistance. Every dollar from the “Raise The Paddle” donations goes directly to tuition grants for next year. Thank you for your generosity. Your donations help with funds to support our mission through tuition grants. A generous donor will match 50% of every dollar raised to support the education of our youth – thank you for your contributions!

The Franklin Academy’s annual Gala and Auction is a great way to support our school!

Year after year, we are astounded by the generosity of our community. Here is your opportunity to be a supporting part of this event. Cash donations allow us to purchase many items below retail value in order to keep our costs down. A donation of $25 helps us purchase wine for the Wine Wheel Game, and a $1,500 donation can help underwrite a Live Auction Item such as a Trip to San Juan Island. Every dollar makes a difference, and your donation may be tax deductible.

Choosing to be a Corporate or Family Sponsor is also a tremendous help! Every year our sponsors cover the cost of the printing, décor, rental of the ballroom, and meals. This means every dollar raised at the Gala directly supports our educational program, teachers, and tuition scholarships.

Contact Kiki Patterson-Hulett with any questions: .


franklin academy auction attendee raising his bid number during the auction in 2023 at the silver reef casino

Saturday, January 27th 2024, at Silver Reef Casino

The Franklin Academy welcomes your attendance and support of this year’s 50th gala and auction. We anticipate an evening filled with wonderful auction items as well as food and entertainment. Join us!


What is the Gala and Auction?

The gala and auction is an annual event The Franklin Academy hosts. Each year community members come together to celebrate and support our fantastic school. Last year’s gala and auction raised over $600,000 to support The Franklin Academy.

Proceeds of the auction go directly to Franklin Academy’s general operating fund. Table sponsorship is tax deductible. Here are some examples of what the general fund covers:

  • Administrative expenses
  • Instructional expenses
  • Student services
  • Field trips, clubs, travel, extracurriculars, electives
  • Special events
  • Technology
  • Utilities
  • Facilities/grounds
  • Insurance
  • Marketing/Development

We also have “raise the paddle” at the auction, which allows people to donate to the student scholarship fund. As well as the always exciting “dessert dash” that helps raise funds for the 7th/8th-grade trip.

We hope this information has been helpful and that you will consider attending this fun and fancy event for our school! 


Sponsorship and Table Information

Seats are obtained by table sponsorship.

One person, company, organization, etc. sponsors the table.

One payment is made to The Franklin Academy; however, you can split the table fee. We recommend grade-level table sponsorships. This is an excellent way for parents to mingle with other parents they know or would like to get to know better. It is also a way to share the cost of a table. To sponsor a grade-level table, you will need to decide on a point person to make the payment to The Franklin Academy.

Each table seats 10 people. Dinner is included.


Want to donate?

We welcome all types of donations, from cash contributions for underwriting live auction items to those unused cash cards.


* Auction Procurement Form