Kristine Delgadillo
Staff Writer
Bonita High School’s auto shop class held its third annual car show Saturday to raise funds for the class to ensure the program remains on campus.
The event commenced with the introduction of the participants. The cars ranged from race cars and sports cars to vintage automobiles.
“This fundraiser is a great way to bring La Verne cheer, music, sports and art together because (the students) can all showcase their work while at the same time supporting the auto shop class,” said Priscilla Englert, auto shop instructor at Bonita High School.
Crowds of car show participants and guests entered as soon as the gates promptly opened at 9 a.m.
The entire parking lot of the school was filled with cars, new and old, from families across La Verne.
The auto shop class arrived at 5:30 a.m. to help set-up booths, tables and to usher car show participants to their assigned locations. The students’ enthusiasm for the event was apparent and it reflected in the success of the event.
Bonita High School students supported the fundraiser as students volunteered and performed for the crowds.
“I have a lot of coworkers working with me today, and even the principle came out to help,” Englert said.
The event raised money by selling food, coffee, shirts, raffle tickets and with a $25 vehicle registration fee.
The registration fees made up the majority of the funds raised, helping the students raise around $4,500 and inspiring them to continue on with the fundraiser.
“This fundraiser doesn’t get bigger without support and participation, so whoever is available next year should come out and support,” said Englert.
“It’s crucial for our schools to keep programs like the auto shop class because not everyone is able to go to college, so these classes really help prepare for trade schools and other jobs,” said Rosie Robinson, grandmother of Bonita High School student Megan Papsis.
Students and parents expressed their dissatisfaction with budget cuts to schools nationwide.
Because of these cuts, specialized programs such as auto and wood shop are harder to find and maintain in public schools.
“These types of programs are imperative for students to gain interest in other things, besides the typical classes like science and English,” said Jenny Sillett, mother of Bonita High School student Tyler Logan.
“It’s too bad these types of programs are being eliminated because a lot of students will never have a chance to experience auto shop.”
Kristine Delgadillo can be reached at kristine.delgadillo@laverne.edu.
