Events

McKinley offers a variety of school-wide events as fundraisers or fun for the family! Below is a list of the typical events offered throughout the year and the approximate time of year in which they are held. Please see individual event pages for current information, as overall timeframes may change year to year.

Summer

Summer Playdates: The McKinley PTC organizes several playdates over the summer for new and returning families. These are a great opportunity for new McKinley students to meet new friends, to get questions answered, and to become acquainted with all McKinley has to offer!

Throughout the Year

Movie Nights: The McKinley PTC offers movie nights at the Joint Use Park throughout the year. Pack a picnic, grab your lawn chairs and blankets, and hang out with friends to take in a movie! Movies typically start at sunset. These events are held multiple times throughout the school year.

Green Day: The Campus Beautification Committee hosts two events per year to clean up the campus, tend to plants, and add inspiring artwork. This typically happens in the fall and spring, and occurs on a weekend day.

Fifth Grade Fundraisers & Activities: The fifth grade class participates in tons of fun activities throughout the year to celebrate their final year of elementary school. They hold a variety of fundraising events throughout the year to raise money to fund these activities, in particular selling concessions at various school and PTC events. While fundraising occurs throughout the year, the bulk of the planned activities occur in the Spring and towards the end of the school year. 

Fall

Back to School Night: Typically held one evening within the first few weeks of school. This event is targeted towards adults so they can learn about their child’s teacher and classroom. Although it is encouraged for children to stay home for this event, they are welcome to attend. 

Jog-A-Thon (Fundraiser): The McKinley Parent Teacher Club’s JOG-A-THON is the school’s BIGGEST fundraiser and your support is vital. This is the only event where the kids take the lead in raising money for their school. Typically held in late October.

Winter

SoNo Fest and Chili Cook-Off (Fundraiser): SoNo Fest & Chili Cook-Off is a beloved annual fundraising event for McKinley Elementary School that is attended by school families, but also the general public. It is 100% McKinley parent and surrounding community volunteer operated and 100% of the proceeds go to The McKinley Foundation. Typically held the first Sunday in December.

McKinley Theatre Company (MTC) Performance: The school play is typically held late January/early February. Customarily, the cast and crew opportunities are open to 3rd through 5th graders.

Spring

McKinley Festival of Books: This is a week-long event that includes a book sale and swap, read-a-thon, and other fun activities. It is typically held in March or April and is tied in with the Scholastic Book Fair.

Scholastic Book Fair: Get ready to pick out some smelly erasers and a fresh Lamborghini poster! The Scholastic Book Fair occurs for a full week each year, and while it is usually in April or May, the timing each year depends on variety of factors. Students visit the book fair during class time and will have the opportunity to visit after school during select days and times.

Variety Show: This is a fun opportunity for students get to showcase a skill or ability to the school community. It is typically held in March and performance opportunities are open to students in K-5th grade.

Spring Fundraiser: This event was previously called the Spring Gala, and incorporates a fun social event with an online auction to raise funds for the school. Typically, this event is held in early May.

Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week: We are deeply grateful for the dedication and hard work of our exceptional teachers and staff. The McKinley community focuses on expressing our gratitude and celebrates our wonderful group of educators and support staff during this week. This is typically celebrated in May. Check out the McKinley PTC calendar for the specific week for this year’s Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week.

5th Grade End-of-Year Activities: Buckle up, 5th-grade families -the end of the year is busy! Special events for McKinley “Seniors” usually include 5th Grade Camp at Camp Marston, a trip to Skateworld, an off-site picnic, a bonfire, and the 5th Grade Challenge: Teachers vs. Students (a beloved annual tradition). Events may change year to year.

McKinley Campout: Bring your tents and flashlights to the Joint Use Park and camp out with buddies! This event is held on one of the last Fridays before the school year ends. Families stay the night and enjoy a movie, dinner, and breakfast with school friends to celebrate the end of the year. This event is particularly special for McKinley families and you’ll often see alumni students show up for a homecoming of sorts. 

Updated 8/20/2024