In the midst of reduced spending on education, Westfield Brandon will present more than $17,500 to schools in the greater Brandon area.
Cash 4 Class at Westfield Brandon, in its third year, is a program that encourages local families and friends to show their school spirit by shopping at the mall over a two-month period to earn “points” and, ultimately, cash for the school of their choice. Schools must be state-accredited schools teaching first – 12th grade students. Between August 1 and September 30, customers can turn in their receipts at the Westfield Concierge.
Each dollar spent equals one point. Shop on Mondays to receive double points at every store, and also receive double points with any Westfield gift card purchase, anytime. Double points are also offered for shopping any day of the week at any store in Westfield Brandon’s new wing.
Points are added to the school of the shopper’s choice. A tally board will keep a total of each school’s points. Rankings will be based on a point-per-student ratio to ensure an even playing field for all schools. The highest point-per-student ratio will determine the winning school.
The top three schools will win cash prizes of $10,000, $5,000 and $2,500, respectively. Fourth and fifth place schools will also win prizes.
Last year’s winners included first place Nativity Catholic School, second place Immanuel Lutheran School and third place Apollo Beach Elementary.
Immanuel Lutheran administrative assistant Lisa Talbott says it sent out email blasts and encouraged parents and church members to show their support by shopping at the mall.
The school used the $5,000 prize to purchase an accelerated reader enterprise. “It gave us Internet access and helped us improve our AR program,” said Talbott.
Westfield Brandon marketing director Dawn Richter says that towards the end of the program the competition becomes extremely aggressive. “Last year schools actually brought people to the mall by the busload.” Approximately 10 schools were in an extremely close race.
“As popular as this program was last year, I expect it to be even more important this year,” said Richter. “The schools need the money.”
For more information about Class 4 Cash, visit www.westfield.com/brandon or contact Richter at 661-5100.
