Downtown School Auction

Downtown School Fundraising Auction
Hosted by the Downtown School PTA
Friday, May 2, 2025 @ 6pm
Ricochet, 400 Locust St, Des Moines
–> Click here for EVITE
–> Click here to BID on silent auction items!

Event Sponsors

Event Space Donor

Thank you to our sponsors for supporting this event!

Yellow-Level Sponsors ($250+)

  • Abby Mills and Brandon Geib

Dentons Davis Brown PC

GroupC Digital

Music League

TigerLily STEM

Hatchlings – FILDI Game Studio

Blue-Level Sponsors ($100–$250)

About the Auction

Join us for the Downtown School Auction! Our biggest fundraiser is back—happening only once every two years! This adults-only event features an exciting live and silent auction, a cash bar, and a chance to celebrate our amazing teachers. Whether you’re bidding on incredible items or simply connecting with other DTS families and staff, it’s a night you won’t want to miss!

Why It Matters

The Auction helps fund two years of PTA support for DTS events and programs, including:

✨ School Events – 5th Grade Recognition & Celebration, Meet the Teacher Nights, Winter Dances, Skate Nights, and our Back-to-School & End-of-Year Picnics.
📚 Classroom & Staff Support – Teacher Support Fund for classroom supplies, professional development, and appreciation gifts.
💡 Special Projects – Bridges Interventionist Program, industrial roll laminator, 4th grade curriculum, staff PBL training, incubator and more in 2024-2025; funding for the DTS garden, and technology upgrades.
🏫 Building Resources & School Spirit – Playground equipment, library furniture, and a free DTS t-shirt for every incoming student.

Location

Ricochet is a bar and game lounge in the Capitol Square Building (400 Locust St, Ste 105, Des Moines), overlooking Cowles Commons and the Civic Center. Enter through any door and follow signs to the check-in table. Enjoy a cash bar, free games, and food from Mala’s Kitchen food truck near Cowles Commons. A huge thank-you to Ricochet for generously donating their space for the DTS Auction!

Parking Info

Street parking is available—download the DSM Parking app for easy payment (meters also accept coins and cards). The 5th Street Garage (between Grand & Locust) connects to Ricochet via the skywalk. Other public garages are nearby as well.

Who Can Come?

Anyone 21+ is welcome—teachers, staff, family, extended family, neighbors, and friends. Please note: this is a kid-free event (no students or guests under 21).

Can Friends & Family Participate Remotely?

Yes!

🖥 Anyone can bid online through the silent auction website.
📦 Items can be sent home with you or picked up at school (sorry, we can’t mail items).
💸 Not into bidding? Donate here:https://www.dtspta.com/donate-dts/dts-auction/

What’s Up For Auction?

Expect a mix of gift cards, experiences, and one-of-a-kind art—including special items made by DTS students. Ask your student what their classroom is contributing!

How Do I Pay For Items?

This is a cash-free event. All auction items will be paid for via the Auction website/app. The auction link will be available the week before the event—check Facebook, your email, or your student’s backpack for information on how to sign up before May 2.

What to Expect That Night?

Even if you’re not bidding, join us for a fun, casual evening connecting with the DTS community!

🟡 Silent auction items will be online only (bidding help available at check-in if needed).
🟡 A few live auction items will be presented during the event.
🟡 We’ll also take time to thank our amazing DTS teachers and staff.

🎟 Free to attend
👗 No dress code

Mark your calendar and be part of a night that makes a difference!