On Friday, Feb. 6 District 279 Foundation’s annual ‘A Night Out- Winter Wonderland gala’ was held at Leopold’s Mississippi Gardens event center. The magical evening included twinkling lights, shimmering décor, ice sculptured centerpieces, social hour, silent/live auction, 360-degree photo booth, formal dinner and program.

Attendees were encouraged to wear semi-formal attire, and a ‘Best Dressed’ contest was held. The event raised over $80,000 that will go towards grant programs for students in Osseo Area Schools. Special thanks to the event sponsors, attendees, financial donors, auction donors and volunteers for helping make this year’s event a success.

“This year’s ‘A Night Out’ event was a great time to celebrate all the amazing work happening in Osseo Area Schools and to reconnect with colleagues and community members,” said attendee Conner Xiong, a district employee. “Especially in these recent times of uncertainty and anxiousness, it was very meaningful to attend an event that reminds us of why we do the work that we do—inspiring and preparing each and every one of our scholars!”