Rain or shine, the Fulton Elementary School community always shows up and today’s Annual Spring Fling was a perfect example of that spirit.
Organized by the Family Teacher Organization (FTO), this event has become a cherished tradition, bringing together Fulton families and the broader Lancaster City community for an evening of fun, laughter, and togetherness. It’s a reflection of what makes Fulton special: students playing alongside friends, families bonding over shared experiences, and a school community that truly feels like home.
“Our goal has always been to create an event where families can enjoy time together, no matter their circumstances,” said Brenna Benner, FTO president. “It’s a chance for students and families to relax, have fun, and participate in things they might not otherwise get to do. We focus on offering as many free activities as possible.”
And what a lineup it was. Families enjoyed a bounce house, free face painting, sidewalk chalk, music, bubbles, and free boys’ haircuts thanks to an incredible team of volunteers. A special thank you goes to Chestnut Hill Church for sponsoring the dunk tank and providing all of the face painting volunteers, helping keep the event accessible to everyone.
Of course, the dunk tank stole the show once again. Students lined up to dunk brave staff members including Ms. Edna, Mr. Benner, Mrs. Wenger, Mrs. Griffin, and Mr. Cunningham. Principal Sohonyay made things even more exciting by setting new challenges: if the dunk tank raised $350, students would vote on whether he’d get a mohawk, take a pie to the face, or wear a wild outfit on the last day of school. And if the total hit $500? He promised to do all three! Laughter and cheers filled the air as students took their best shots.
The fun didn’t stop there: families enjoyed food trucks, a visit from the Lancaster Public Library’s “Library on the Go” van, and a special appearance by Cylo from the Lancaster Stormers, adding extra magic to the evening.
Now in its fourth year, the Spring Fling marks the close of the school year, the end of PSSA testing, and a well-deserved celebration for students and staff alike. As Brenna shared, “It’s about making memories that last. My family has been part of Fulton for more than a decade, and this school really is like a second home.”
Even with rainy skies, the turnout was incredible showing once again how strong and connected the Fulton community is. The event highlighted not only the hard work of the FTO and volunteers, but also the commitment of the families and staff who make Fulton such a welcoming place for all.
A big thank you goes out to everyone who helped make the Spring Fling a success: the volunteers, staff, donors, and community partners who gave their time and resources to create such a special experience. Your support makes a real difference.
For anyone who couldn’t make it or who just wants to help push the dunk tank fundraiser over the top donations are still being accepted via Venmo (@fultonelementarypto). The countdown to the end-of-year assembly is on, and we can’t wait to see which challenge Principal Sohonyay will take on next!
Thank you to our entire Fulton family and Lancaster community for another memorable Spring Fling. Let’s finish the school year strong and head into summer with full hearts and lots of great memories. For more photos, visit us on Facebook.