What is the Trailwood Auction?
The auction is the main fundraiser for the Trailwood PTA and occurs every other year. It’s also a fun night out for Thunderbird parents and friends to enjoy food and drink, live music, and each other’s company! Attendees can bid on items via our online platform (silent auction), and during a fun live auction with trips, sports tickets, and other great experiences. 

This year’s auction is Saturday, February 28, 2026 at the Indian Hills Country Club. The theme is Roarin’ 20s and will feature appetizers, a bar as well as a VIP Happy Hour experience.

What do auction proceeds fund?
The PTA funds programs that enrich the educational experience of students and staff as well as build community among Thunderbird families.

Here’s what your generosity helps fund in 2026 and beyond:

• Community Building Events — Free for All Families! We strive to make as many events free as possible throughout the year. These include the T-Bird Trot, Movie Nights, Science Night, Special Person’s Lunch and more!
• Enhanced Learning Tools and Technology: Not all learning resources are covered by the district, so we partner directly with teachers to fill mini grants for special classroom needs, specific technology and materials.
• Student Field Trips: The Trailwood PTA is one of the few in SMSD that fully funds our student field trip experiences! This is our biggest budget item that we are dedicated to continuing year after year.
• Teacher Love & Classroom Support: We love loving on our teachers! The PTA recognizes teachers during awareness months, through special lunches, treats and holiday gifts. Each teacher also is given a stipend to purchase classroom supplies.
• School Assemblies: The PTA funds multicultural events and special assemblies to add to our students’ experiences beyond the classroom.

What is the attire?
The theme this year is “Roaring 20s”. Costumes are encouraged but not required! Date night attire. 

What is the schedule for the evening?
5 p.m. Speakeasy Society Cocktail Hour (VIP ticket holders)
6 p.m. Doors Open
6-7:30 p.m. Eat, Drink, Bid on silent auction items
8:20 p.m. Live Auction Begins
9 p.m. Silent Auction Ends
9-10 p.m. Celebrate (live DJ)!

How much is a ticket and what does it include?
Tickets are $65 per person and include a fantastic evening, heavy hors d’oeuvres, dessert, two drink tickets, and both a silent and live auction. Enjoy music from a DJ! The event runs from 6-10 p.m.

VIP Speakeasy Society Cocktail Hour: A special VIP cocktail hour from 5-6 p.m. Tickets are $100 per person and include an open bar, food, and VIP seating for the live auction.

What are the grade level parties?
Trailwood has wonderful parents and teachers that host experiences for our students and their classmates. Parties usually happen over the summer months and have included pool parties, cupcake making, tea parties, kickball games and more. Don’t miss out on the fun and remember all proceeds go to the school! 

What are the adult parties?
Trailwood has an exciting line up of parties this year, offering something for everyone in the community. Some of our favorite annual traditions include the Progressive Dinner, Pickleball Party, Senoritas and Sangrias, and the Poker Party.

How do I bid on auction items?
All bidding will take place through Auction Frogs, a user friendly platform. We’ll be in touch when it’s time to set up your account. Items will go live February 16.