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FAIS ANNUAL GALA PIVOTS TO FIRST-EVER VIRTUAL COMMUNITY GATHERING! In the spring of 2020, FAIS friends and family came together to celebrate our student art and raise important funds to support our community during this time of financial uncertainty. The FAIS Virtual Community Gathering, which replaced the annual gala due to COVID-19, drew over 180 families to participate and support the School. This community event was an opportunity to join together in a spirit of celebration and appreciation for the French American International School. Contributions during our Virtual Community Gathering supported keeping the FAIS community whole in two crucial ways: 1. Financial aid to retain current families and welcome new families. 2. An appreciation fund for teachers and staff — who pivoted on a dime to create stability, continuity, and a positive learning environment for our students in a time of chaos In the week leading up to the event, families drove through campus to see all of the student art projects — LIVE — from the comfort of their car at the Drive-Thru Art Gallery. This was a celebration of the hard work that all of our students put into the art projects throughout the year, and was a wonderful reminder of what we can create together. The virtual event was hosted by Johnna Wells of Benefit Auction 360, who created a wonderful flow and sense of engagement for the community. Families bid on art projects, entered the raffle to win a designated parking spot on FAIS campus, and gave generously during the moment of giving. The event raised over $200,000 for FAIS. Thank you to everyone for participating and continuing to support this wonderful community!