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Birds and Bulls Gala

The Birds and Bulls Gala is Maize Education Foundation’s annual event, bringing together community members, educators, and supporters to invest in the success of Maize USD 266 students and teachers. Guests enjoy a plated dinner, live entertainment, an open bar, and the chance to support programs that make a real difference.

The second-annual Gala, held on February 13, 2025, featured a sweetheart theme, the Newlywed Game, live and silent auctions, and a dessert buffet created by Maize culinary students. Together, guests raised over $35,000, with proceeds benefiting Student Enrichment Grants, Challenge Grants, Teacher Appreciation initiatives, and more. Two Challenge Grants were fully funded that night, helping bring new educational ideas to classrooms across the district.

The Birds and Bulls Gala is a night to connect, give back, and support student success. Stay tuned for information on the 2026 Birds and Bulls Gala!

175 people enjoy dinner at the Birds and Bulls Gala

2025 Birds and Bulls Gala

The 2025 Birds and Bulls Gala raised more than $35,000 in support of the Maize Education Foundation! Relive the night with us by looking through these photos.

A crowd of 175 people watch Maize Education Foundation director speak from on stage
Two volunteers sit at the check-in table
An event program sits between a fork and knife at an elegant table setup
A man and a woman pose in a photobooth with a pink backdrop
An array of desserts
An array of desserts
A sign welcoming guests to a silent auction
A crowd of guests gathers at the check in table
A sign welcomes guests to the wine and whiskey pull
A group of people wearing pink poses for a photo
Maize Education Foundation group photo of Board of Directors
Game show winners pose in front of a trophy
Game show contestants sit on stage holding white boards
Dr. Lyndsey Brown addresses the crowd from on stage
Foundation Director Emi Simmons addresses the crowd from on stage
Amber Chalashtari addresses the crowd from onstage
Cristy Kerbs and Terry Johnson hold microphones and lead the crowd through the game show rules
Game Show contestants are addressed by Cristy Kerbs
175 people enjoy dinner at the Birds and Bulls Gala
Teachers James and Jessica Buchanan laugh on stage
Guests in formal attire cheer and smile
Guests compete for points by holding up signs
Taylor Bannister addresses the crowd from on stage

Fully Funded Educator Grants

With the support of our guests, the Maize Education Foundation was able to fully fund two grants for educators at the second-annual Birds and Bulls Gala. Read on to learn about the programs we funded together!

Inclusive Play for All

The Inclusive Play for All grant enhances the learning experience of children with special needs by providing switch-adapted toys. The goal is to create an inclusive environment that supports cognitive, social, and motor development for children with diverse abilities. The classroom serves students with various disabilities, and traditional toys are often inaccessible to them, limiting their engagement and growth. Switch-adapted toys, activated by simple switches, offer a solution by allowing children to play and communicate independently, promoting active participation. Funding will be used to purchase a variety of these toys, encouraging interaction, communication, and cooperation among the children. The integration of technology in the toys aligns with modern educational practices and enhances the overall learning experience. This initiative aims to foster a supportive environment where every child's unique abilities are valued. Ultimately, the project will improve the quality of education and promote inclusivity, benefiting both the individual children and the broader community.  

Chameleons Growing in Science and Art

Vermillion Elementary is excited to take our cross curricular learning beyond the brick and mortar through the utilization of our outdoor learning courtyard.  Students will be engulfed in their learning with the five sense garden, the exposure to a variety of art techniques as well as learning about life first hand through the incubation process of chicks.  Chameleon students will be encouraged to safely explore and get their hands dirty as they learn through these cross curricular experiences. 

Presenting Sponsor:
Credit Union of America

Credit Union of America Logo with the slogan: Serving Educators Since 1935

 

Gala Sponsors:

Building Controls and Services logo
City of Maize logo
Cristy Kerbs ReeceNichols logo
Farmers Insurance Morrison Agency logo
Foley Rental logo
Four Star Lawn Care logo
Holmberg Wellness Group logo
Hutton Construction logo
Invenergy logo
Kruse Corporation logo
The Pando Initiative Logo
Project Teacher logo
Schaefer Architecture logo
Scooters Brew Crew Logo
Wilson Building Maintenance logo

Reflecting on Past Galas