On the afternoon of March 20th, the Puxi Campus of Shanghai High School International Division successfully hosted its annual charity fair for Grade 4 and Grade 5 students, drawing enthusiastic participation from students, teachers, and parents alike. This meaningful event aimed to raise funds for the “Project Volunteer Online 2.0” initiative and Hunan Wispring Education Development Foundation while providing students with a valuable platform to showcase creativity, develop practical skills, and foster a sense of social responsibility and teamwork.

During the preparation phase, students demonstrated remarkable creativity and planning skills. They designed eye-catching posters and flyers that highlighted their booth offerings and promotional activities. These materials featured compelling slogans that called on everyone to support the charitable cause, generating buzz throughout the campus. Display boards featuring these designs were set up in prominent areas ahead of the event, effectively drawing attention and building excitement. The ASB members played an instrumental role in ensuring the event's success. They assisted in decorating the poster boards and helped manage the token exchange station, ensuring the queue remained orderly and efficient.

Meanwhile, parent volunteers contributed by assisting with logistics, helping transport supplies, and setting up the venue, ensuring everything was in place for a smooth and successful event. This seamless collaboration between students, teachers, and parents not only enriched the experience for everyone involved but also highlighted the strong bond between home and school.

When Thursday afternoon arrived, the bazaar came to life with bustling crowds and vibrant booths. The arts and crafts section was filled with meticulously crafted student-made creations, from intricately woven accessories to imaginative paintings, each reflecting the students' dedication and ingenuity. The food section was a sensory delight, featuring an array of international cuisines such as French pastries, Japanese sushi rolls, and traditional Chinese desserts, creating a multicultural feast for visitors to enjoy. The interactive games area was equally popular, with classic activities like ring toss and beanbag throwing.

Inspired by the beloved animated film Ne Zha, several booths offered themed merchandise, while some students and parents even dressed as characters from the movie to attract customers. Their creative approach proved to be a crowd favorite, adding fun and energy to the event. Many students also took the opportunity to showcase their individual talents. Some displayed their artistic skills by selling original books, paintings, and other creative works, while others brought musical instruments and performed live, filling the air with soothing melodies that created an atmosphere of warmth and generosity. Teachers also played an active role in adding value to the event. Ms. Wu combined calligraphy with decorative arts, offering customized English handwriting services. Each carefully written letter conveyed sincere blessings, adding a personal touch that resonated with participants. In addition, the bazaar’s diverse offerings reflected a blend of tradition and innovation. Traditional Chinese art forms such as sugar painting and lacquered fans introduced visitors to the beauty of cultural heritage, while the 3D-printed model station brought a modern technological flair. The wide variety of items on display ensured that every participant left with something special, and students gained a deep sense of fulfillment from their efforts.

Another highlight of this year's charity fair was the integration of mathematics into the experience. Grade 5 math teachers designed a project-based learning activity that allowed students to apply real-world math skills throughout the event. Students calculated budgets, managed costs, and analyzed profit margins to evaluate their booth's performance. This hands-on approach provided students with a valuable opportunity to understand concepts like pricing strategies, financial planning, and data analysis in a practical context. By directly applying their mathematical knowledge, students gained a deeper appreciation for how these skills translate to everyday life.

After the charity fair concluded, ASB members donned work vests, grabbed trash bags, and joined teachers and staff in cleaning the venue, swiftly restoring the space to its original state. Reflecting on the event, students shared that they had not only gained valuable knowledge and teamwork skills but also discovered the joy and fulfillment of helping others. Teachers and parents also praised the event, emphasizing that it was more than just a charity sale—it was a meaningful educational experience. Many parents expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate, deepening their understanding of the school's educational philosophy while bonding with their children in a shared effort to support a worthy cause.

Through events like this, students not only contribute to social welfare but also cultivate essential life skills, emerging as compassionate and responsible global citizens. While the charity fair has ended, the love and hope it inspired will continue to grow, fostering a spirit of kindness and community within the school and beyond.

Written by Teng Chen

Proofread by Chad Higgenbottom

Pictures/Videos by Minxuan Cao, Teachers, Parents Volunteers

Edited by Cong Luo

Reviewed by Luting Lu, Chenli Shen, Cong Luo