When they started planning this year's banquet and benefit auction, the committee members at Susquehanna Waldorf School chose a name - Gather Around - that reflects the school's mission.

"This is a message of togetherness as we gather to support Susquehanna Waldorf School and the community that relies on us," explained Courtney Kokus, development and marketing director.

Gather Around will be held on Saturday, March 2, from 6 to 10 p.m. at John Wright Restaurant, 234 N. Front St., Wrightsville.

The evening will feature a catered meal by John Wright Restaurant, live music, a wine toss, and both a silent and a live auction.

"We will have a large array of art, local experiences, handmade products and custom offerings, including themed dinners and a murder mystery night," Kokus said of the items featured in the auction.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the school, located at 15 W. Walnut St., Marietta. Kokus explained that Susquehanna Waldorf School, which serves students in prekindergarten through eighth grade, is affectionately known as "The School by the River."

"Our independent school is dedicated to fostering a deep and enduring passion for learning, with a focus on nurturing the holistic development of each child through their educational journey," she stated. "What makes us truly unique is our adherence to the principles of Waldorf education. Our approach goes beyond academics, emphasizing the development of the whole child. Our curriculum integrates the arts, movement and experiential learning, time in nature, ensuring a well-rounded education that nurtures creativity, critical thinking and a sense of wonder." Waldorf education began in the early 20th century, based on the principles of artist and scientist Rudolf Steiner. Today, there are more than 1,000 Waldorf schools in 64 countries around the world.

Susquehanna Waldorf School has been serving students in York, Lancaster and Dauphin counties for more than 35 years, and it currently enrolls more than 130 students. It relies on events like Gather Around to continue providing services to students.

"The proceeds will support the gap between our tuition and the amount it takes to run the school," Kokus shared. "We also have a special appeal to support increasing the funding for our professional development fund, which is used to fund the many trainings our teachers attend, some of which are held out of the country."

For more information on the banquet and to view or bid on auction items, visit http://www.betterunite.com/susquehannawaldorfschool-gatheraround. The online auction will end at 8 p.m. on March 2.