B-PC Elementary School’s 4^th Grade Penny Carnival is a student-centered, project-based learning experience that is not only educational, but a well-loved school and community tradition! Each year 4^th graders at B-PCE work together in groups to come up with fun carnival games they craft on their own with the guidance of teachers and guardians. Then, one day each spring, students hold their carnival event (hopefully outdoors) during school hours where they invite all grade levels to come play the games they made for a cost of $0.25 per game. The money made during this event helps fund a cause chosen by the 4^th grade classes. Some examples from the past include funding new playground equipment, memorial funds, classroom supplies, or charitable organizations that benefit students.

In addition to designing and making their games, the 4^th graders seek donations from local businesses to serve as raffle prizes. Raffle tickets are sold at the Penny Carnival event to raise further funds. Families also donate gently used items for a “yard sale” where these items are thrifted to student attendees, and the funds raised there, also contribute to the chosen cause.

To make this well-loved event possible, the 4^th grade teachers and paraprofessionals invest a great deal of time and effort, and families are asked to support their 4^th grade child in several ways as well. Each year, 4^th grade families receive materials from their child’s teacher outlining some specific supports that parents and guardians provide throughout this project.