This year, Minot Forest and John W. Decas elementary schools will see improvements in technology and playscapes for their students, thanks to the biggest fundraiser in either school's history.

In May, the schools raised $43,000 together. That money was split equally between the schools.

On Wednesday night, School Committee members discussed the upcoming improvements at their first meeting back since breaking for the summer.

Parent Teacher Association President Nicole Mazzoli and Minot Forest Principal Joan Seamans detailed how the money was used.

At Decas, Mazzoli said that 25 percent of the money went toward playground equipment and the rest toward technology. Twenty-two headsets, online programs for the students and a tire-swing were some of the purchases.

Minot Forest, which is undergoing a feasibility study for improvements to the school, has $14,000 in reserve. Though Mazzoli said the school would like a big playground that plan is on hold until the feasibility study is done.

Playground equipment has been priced out and will fit in the budget, said Mazzoli. The PTA will involve the community in the project.

"At the end of the day, every decision we make here is because we love the kids," said Mazzoli.

Seamans thanked Mazzoli for her leadership and encouraged more people to attend PTA meetings.

Mazzoli said the schools are already signed up to do the same fundraiser next year. The theme will be "Backyard Box Office," focusing on young entrepreneurs.

In other good news of the night, Wareham Middle School student Robert Alpert (shown below), was awarded a Presidential Award and numerous awards from the school.