When an outdated sound system kept cutting out during student performances at Miller South School for the Performing Arts, parents and community members raised the money to fix it themselves.

With the district facing a projected $12 million deficit and limited funds for building upgrades, parents Andy Shepperd and Mina Riazi organized a fundraiser that raised $13,000 in just eight weeks. Support from Audio-Technica U.S., Inc. in Stow allowed the school to purchase a $24,000 sound system at nearly half the cost.

“It was all parents and community,” said Principal Regina Anderson.

The sold-out fundraiser featured live music, student performances, raffles, silent auctions, and artwork donated by Miller South families and alumni. Downtown Akron venue Musica donated the space.

The new system was installed last week and will be used for theater, music, dance, and art presentations, benefiting all 414 students. It will debut publicly during the spring production of “Matilda the Musical,” March 12–14.

Organizers say the successful fundraiser will now become an annual event supporting different school needs.