Bloom Benefit 2026
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The Evening
Guests can expect a warm, welcoming evening filled with great food, lively conversation, and meaningful moments. The night begins with a cocktail hour and silent auction, followed by a short program featuring stories from students, teachers, and school leaders about the impact of The Independent School.
Throughout the evening, guests will enjoy time to connect with friends, meet members of the TIS community, and celebrate the students and educators who make this school so special.
Attire for Bloom is flexible. Some guests enjoy dressing up for a night out, while others prefer to keep things a little more casual. Come in whatever makes you feel comfortable. Everyone is welcome just as they are.
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Childcare Available!
Want to enjoy the evening knowing your kids are having fun too? We’ve got you covered.
Childcare will be available during Bloom from 4:30–8:30 PM for $40 per child. The evening includes pizza, crafts, and games, all led by our Upper School Prom Committee.
It’s a fun night for them and a great way for you to fully enjoy Bloom.
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Auction Highlights
One of the most exciting parts of Bloom is the auction. Each year our community comes together to create unforgettable experiences you simply cannot find anywhere else. From beloved TIS traditions to unique Wichita adventures, every bid supports the students, teachers, and programs that make The Independent School such a special place.
Here are just a few of the items guests will be bidding on this year.
Signature TIS Experiences
Head of School for the Day
Spend the day alongside Head of School Jessica Stong and see what it takes to lead The Independent School. A true behind-the-scenes experience.
Skip Class Pass
Students and two friends get a special school-day adventure with their Division Head that includes a meal and activity.
Limo Arrival to Lower School Family Prom
Dinner and a limo ride before arriving in style at one of Lower School’s most beloved events.
TIS Camp-In Gather 15-20 friends or classmates for an unforgettable overnight adventure at TIS. Choose to camp in tents on the playground or set up air mattresses inside the Lower School. The evening will include games, hot dogs and s’mores, movies, a glow walk, and a midnight game under the lights before wrapping up with breakfast the next morning.
Hosted by the Party Posse Teacher Team:
Lauren Speer, Erin Harter, and Pat Stevens.
Party Posse
A team of TIS favorites will show up to help bring extra fun and energy to your next celebration.
Creative Experiences & Student Art
Lower School Collaborative Art Project
A special piece created by Lower School students. A one-of-a-kind work of art that celebrates the creativity of our youngest Panthers.
Original Artwork by Michele Banks
A beautiful framed reduction relief print created by Upper School art teacher Michelle Banks.
Pottery Lessons with Michelle Banks
A chance to learn directly from one of TIS’s talented art teachers in a hands-on creative experience.
Wichita Experiences & Adventures
Private 20-Seat Movie Theater Screening
Host your own private movie night at Boulevard Theater with friends or family.
Airplane Ride + Wichita Wind Surge Game
Take to the skies and then enjoy America’s favorite pastime right here in Wichita.
Humboldt Glamping Weekend
A relaxing outdoor getaway with a little luxury included.
Wichita Fun Package
A bundle of local favorites including experiences at Chicken N Pickle, Dave & Buster’s, Topgolf, Bliss Climbing & Fitness, and more.
Food & Unique Experiences
Booth Creek Wagyu Beef Experience with Bourbon
Artsy Pizza Party & Bracelet Making with Mrs. O’Leary
Private Party at Central Standard Brewery: Host a celebration for up to 50 guests at Central Standard Brewery. Perfect for birthdays, reunions, or a fun night out with friends.
Ultimate Date Night Package: Enjoy a special night out with a $100 voucher and backstage experience at Music Theatre Wichita, plus a $200 gift card to Chester’s Chophouse.
Enjoy a day at Kauffman Stadium cheering on the Royals.
“From the Lower School, with Love”
Treat yourself to a luxurious collection of hair and self-care products from The Wash House, Wichita’s boutique scalp and hair wellness studio. This thoughtfully curated basket is perfect for a relaxing reset.
“Seaside” is an original reduction relief print by Upper School art teacher Michele Banks, part of a limited edition of 10.
And that is just the beginning! Additional experiences, local packages, and surprises will be available to bid on during the silent and live auctions!
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Community and Care
Bloom Benefit is our annual opportunity to come together as a community and invest in the people and programs that make The Independent School what it is.
Families invest deeply in this school through tuition, which provides an important foundation. Bloom Benefit helps extend that foundation by supporting financial assistance for students, investing in exceptional teachers, and strengthening the academic programs that challenge and inspire our students every day.
At TIS, belonging and high expectations go hand in hand. Students are known and supported here, but they are also pushed to think deeply, work hard, and grow into confident learners who are ready for what comes next.
This evening brings together school families and members of the broader Wichita community who believe in education rooted in curiosity, connection, and academic excellence.
You do not need to have a student at TIS to attend or support Bloom. Everyone who believes in what this school is growing is welcome.
These everyday moments of learning, creativity, and connection are what Bloom Benefit helps sustain.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Bloom Benefit sponsorships are a meaningful way for families, businesses, and community partners to invest in the students and teachers of The Independent School.
While tuition provides a strong foundation, sponsorship support helps extend that impact by strengthening programs, increasing access for students who need financial assistance, and supporting the educators who guide and challenge our students each day.
Sponsorship levels are designed to welcome both businesses and individual supporters. Whether you are representing an organization or supporting as a family, your partnership helps sustain the kind of education that allows students to grow with confidence and curiosity.
We are grateful for sponsors who believe in strong schools, supported teachers, and opportunities for young people to thrive.
Thank You to Our Sponsors & Community Partners
Where students are known, supported, and challenged.
Questions about Bloom Benefit?
Contact: marketing@theindependentschool.com