The Farnsworth Elementary teachers make the grade

CHICAGO | Teachers from Chicago Public School (CPS) teamed up with a Chicagoland McDonald’s owner-operator, located on Milwaukee and Elston Ave, on Wednesday, October 10, to kick-off McTeacher’s Night.

The community fundraiser helped raise money for Farnsworth Elementary School with a hands-on approach. Students were able to see their teachers and school administrators in a different setting outside the classroom, while they worked behind the counters taking orders, preparing freshly cooked meals and handing out food and desserts to patrons.

The event was made possible by the generosity of the Funkhouser Family, Chicagoland McDonald’s franchise owner-operators, and their staff, who assisted Farnsworth throughout the night.

Gianna Funkhouser was excited to host the students and teachers and she noted the positive energy the event brought to the restaurant. The McDonald’s staff enjoy partnering with the school because it gives them a chance to give back to the community they are in, according to Funkhouser.

“I’m proud to play a part in bringing the community together and supporting, students and education,” Funkhouser said. She added, “Helping children receive a quality education… that’s the greatest feeling of all.”

Farnsworth Principal, Barbara Oken, was delighted to partner with their local McDonald’s. When the call was placed by the franchise to propose a fundraiser benefit for students, and the schools ongoing fundraising efforts to support education enrichment across the district, Principal Oken seized the opportunity and encouraged teachers and students to get involved.

Teachers Amanda Fakhoury and Breege Feley sold pies while teachers Laura Barnhart and Eric Kauke dressed up in pie box costumes. Teacher Laura Ryan, also on hand, managed orders at the drive-thru, while Vice Principal Julie Walsh served ice cream.

Three Generations show Farnsworth Pride

Jim and Peggy Oehler, both graduates of Farnsworth, have a daughter, Laura Ryan, who teaches currently at the school. Laura has twins in 8th grade who attend Farnsworth. The family said they were grateful to Funkhouser and the McDonald’s staff for a fun and successful event.

The fundraiser raised over $900 throughout the 2-hour period that it ran to help start off the year.

Gianna Funkhouser hopes that in the future she can partner with the school system in more events.

The Farnsworth McTeacher's Night was courtesy of McDonald’s Owner/Operators, The Funkhouser Family. Like us on Facebook

For more information about events provided by the Chicago McDonald's, please contact Community Relations Director, Julie Travers at julie.travers@comcast.net.

A McTeacher’s Night is organized to help raise money for local schools by having the teachers work at McDonald’s, while a percentage of the night’s sales is then donated to the local participating school.