Bet Shira Kids Art Night 2014

On May 1st, Bet Shira Early Childhood Center celebrated the 21st Annual Kids Art Night by creating a cruise-themed experience.

Chaired by PTC members, Melissa Dall'au and Courtney Larkin [pictured below], the annual fundraiser featured individual and class-created artworks by the school's children (ages 18 months to 6 years). “It was so exciting to have the kids see the final touches and setup before the event. They saw their art come together and the spotlight on their work. I’ll never forget their faces,” remarked Courtney Larkin.

Under the artistic guidance of art teacher, Michelle Diamond, the students worked together to create ceramic, mixed media pieces and Judaic art that were then auctioned off at the evening's live auction.

Guests mingled and dined while browsing and bidding on over 125 silent auction items donated by local Pinecrest, Palmetto Bay and South Miami businesses, as well as items from the Florida Marlins, Miami Dolphins and Florida Panthers.

The evening also featured over 800 professional portraits of the school children.  Donated by Marta Villalba Photography for the past 8 years, these stunning photographs have become a centerpiece of the event.   "One of the highlights of the year is to see how she captures the beauty of every child." said ECC Director, Dr. Judi Gampel.

This year's event was attended by over 300 patrons and the money raised will help fund cutting-edge technology in the classrooms. Bet Shira Early Childhood Center is a private preschool and kindergarten located in Pinecrest.