LeopardMom: Our Jr High does a Carnival in March. The different groups within the school (Science Club, Cheerleaders, Photography, etc)or interested classes each sponser a game booth. They always have the extreme inflatables (Velcro wall, Giant Slide, Obstacle course, and a Dunk Tank) They sell tickets or a wristband good for all games and rides. I hear they make pretty good money, although alot of that comes from the food they sell there. And becasue they are Jr High age (old enough to walk home or hang out alone) the school has it right after school is let out til 7p, so even if the parents can't come right away the kids are still there spending money, plus they invite the 2 close by elementary schools to come. They also sell community discount cards at the beginning of the school year.
As President of a Junior High PTO which has a grade configuration of 7-9, I would love to hear your ideas and success stories on getting involvement and on fundraising other than dances and cherrydale type events. Thanks!