GOFFSTOWN — Maple Avenue Elementary School was transformed into a carnival Friday as students celebrated Spring Fling.

The annual fundraising event is a way for students to have some end-of-the-year fun while raising money for extra supplies in the classroom, said Principal Suzanne Pyszka.

From a bounce house, to face and nail painting to carnival games, the focus was on fun as students, donning bright orange shirts they purchased for the event, made their way around the school to participate in activities.

Members of the Goffstown fire and police departments were on hand, so that students could see their vehicles up close, and more than one student set off the police siren.

“It's controlled chaos,” said parent Kate Yarris, “but the kids love it.”

Yarris said it's a safe way for the students to make some choices on their own.

“I think they like the freedom of being able to do what they want to do, instead of people telling them what to do,” she said.

Tickets were required for the events, which sold at 4 for $1, and Yarris said her children used their own money to supplement what she gave them.

School board member Keith Allard volunteered for a shift at the dunk tank, as did other Maple Avenue staff members.

“When I was chair of the school board, I made it a point to participate in school events,” he said. Although he is no longer board chair, Allard said he will likely continue to the tradition.

“It's a lot of fun,” he said.

Pyszka said the event has taken place for at least 30 years, and it's something the students look forward to.

In the end, teachers earn about $150 per class, but in an era of tight budgets, every little bit helps, said Pyszka.

“It's really for the fun of it,” she said.

While first graders don't know what to expect, Pyszka said the older grades get pretty excited about the event.

“This is 'the' day,” she said. “They really look forward to it.”

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Kathy Remillard may be reached at kremillard@newstote.com.