The Orcas Island Education Foundation is sponsoring a wrapping paper fundraiser that is set to kick-off the week of Sept. 21. The proceeds from the campaign will go to support art classes in the public schools.

With so little public funding, schools across the country are now relying more on private funds and patrons of the arts to provide creative outlets for students.  One of the committees of OIEF is “A-OK” (“Art for Orcas Kids”).

A-OK brings local artists to classrooms in the elementary and the middle school to inspire students and help them bring the visual arts to life through age-appropriate projects.

Last year, students K-6 had 16 weeks of art class.

“This year we want to ensure that our students have the same experience,” say organizers.

This fall, OIEF has partnered with Innisbrook, a company that shares the islands’ community sense of environmental awareness. Up to 50 percent of every wrapping paper sale will go toward supporting art in the schools. All standard gift wrap is printed on premium recycled paper, inks are 100 percent water-soluble, and no cardboard cores are included to minimize waste.

“The quality is impressive and there is convenient, online ordering,” say organizers. “Off-island families and friends can support your student’s fundraising efforts.”

In addition to incentives and prizes offered by Innisbrook, OIEF will award the top-selling class a pizza party.

The top-selling student will receive a $50 gift certificate from Darvill’s Bookstore.

For more information contact Janna Carter at jmcarter@wsu.edu.