Tommie Barfield Celebrates Fall with Annual Festival

TBE used to host this event years ago, and many of our current parents remember attending as children.”

Molly Skudnig, Literacy Coach and Lighthouse Coordinator at TBE

A pumpkin patch, face painting, arts and crafts, and the smell of food mixed with the sound of laughter in the air conjure feelings of nostalgia from a Fall Festival of one’s youth. On Tuesday, October 20, Tommie Barfield Elementary (TBE) brought these things back, and much more, to an estimated 750 people!

TBE pulled out all the stops for their third annual Fall Festival. “TBE used to host this event years ago, and many of our current parents remember attending as children,” said Molly Skudnig, Literacy Coach and Lighthouse Coordinator at TBE. This year’s festival marked their largest attendance to date.

The fall fun included many games for the kids like inflatable basketball, axe-throwing, nine-square, bowling, broom hockey, corn hole, and even a gaga pit!

A clear favorite for the students, based on the long line that held steady, was the two dunk tanks! K-fifth teachers braved rotation, leaving few shirts dry, as the eager children wound up to toss a chance at dunking their teacher! Each turn cost $10, and all money raised went directly back to the teachers to spend on each grade level’s events throughout the year. 

Two different food vendors, Smokin’ Water Buffalo and La Mesa, kept people fed, and Sweet Annie’s, the Girl Scouts’ bake sale, and Margo Baking covered everyone’s sweet tooth!

TBE’s Book Fair took place inside the school while the event stayed outside. Palm and Chain permanent jewelry added an additional flair for those picking out their newest accessory.

The community and its local businesses truly stepped up to the plate through their donations made to the silent auction. Their generosity placed over 30 baskets, packages, and gift cards on the docket for the highest bidder. TBE also auctioned off hot-ticket items like VIP tickets to fifth-grade graduation, front row of the car line, and the ability to be principal for the day!

Craig Greusel (aka MR. G, a retired teacher of TBE) was the emcee for the festival, keeping everyone entertained in between the music. The MICMS Jazz Band also performed, under the direction of Mrs. Miller.

Children could be seen running to their friends, playing each game, and grabbing a bite to eat while their parents mingled and perused the silent auction items. MIPD officers could be seen throughout, ensuring everyone’s safety and staying until the very last volunteer left the site.

MIFD brought a fire engine and was a big hit for the kids, allowing them to sit in the driver’s seat, explore the cab, and even touch a few tools!

“We are so grateful as we were able to raise money that will go directly back to TBE. We want to thank everyone who came out to support this event,” said Skudnig. “Our favorite part of this event is the bonding that happens over this Fall Festival theme with community members, families, and students.”

The event could not have happened without the numerous volunteers, who could be seen checkered throughout the entirety of the festival in orange shirts. Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) members, TBE staff volunteers, TBE grandparents, and MIA Key Club students (who helped to run game stations) worked hard to keep the fun flowing.

TBE wishes the biggest thanks to their PTO, which organized all sponsors and coordinated every detail to present a fabulous event for all to enjoy. Liza Corquejo (president), Norma Graham (vice president), Jennifer Gillespie (treasurer), Jamie Dillashaw (secretary), Kiley Lamey (volunteer coordinator), Laura Armas (teacher liaison), Sarah Grief (Fall Fest coordinator), and Siobhan St Amour (Fall Fest alumni support). More big thanks go to the main sponsors: Ridge Valley Exterior-title sponsor; Foster Care and Islander Pool and Patio – dunk tank sponsors; Popoff Pool Service, Gulf Coast Insurance, GETCATFIT, JW Marriott – activity sponsors; and volunteer Lisa Lindsay Photography (also a TBE Teacher).