Auction Raises More than $15k for Washington D.C. Field Trip

EASTFORD — It takes years of fundraising to supply the funds needed to bring an entire grade of Eastford Elementary School students on a multiday field trip to Washington D.C. every spring. Thankfully, the annual Goods & Services Auction plays a major part in meeting that need.

The latest iteration of the fundraiser, hosted by the EES Auction Committee, was held Saturday, Nov. 15, and raised more than $15,000 for the field trip, which is slated for May 19-22, 2026, and this year will include 29 students in both grades 7 and 8. The full night included a live auction, a silent auction with dozens of items, and a raffle for gift cards and other items from businesses from throughout eastern Connecticut and beyond. A bake sale and pizza from Pizza 101 in Pomfret also added opportunities for people to support the event.

Adam Minor photos

students serving food and beverages at a table Students sold beverages and pizza from Pizza 101 at the auction.

two people writing their bid for a Lego set; the Lego set is on the table Seth Budd, along with his brother, Daniel, put in a bid on a LEGO set.

one woman buys a cake from another Stephany Dubina, right, purchases some baked goods from Rachel Budd at the Bake Sale.

people around a table The raffle table was a hot spot throughout the night.

a man at a podium Jeremy Barlow was the master of ceremonies of the live auction.

three people in ponchos covered in pie filling One of the items auctioned off during the live auction was an opportunity to “pie” a Board of Education member. From left, Rob Ellsworth, Lauren Barlow, and Adam Minor show off the aftermath of the winning bids.