The overused "group effort" is spot on when it comes to describing this year's talent show fundraiser held by Pleasant Valley Elementary School.

A reading specialist is master of ceremonies; a third-grade teacher is costume designer; and a guitar-strumming, Elvis-wannabe janitor leads the poodle-skirted staff and teachers in dances from the 1950s.

A music teacher will direct, and students will entertain at 6:30 tonight in the Peters Township High School auditorium, 264 E. McMurray Road.

More than 100 students in kindergarten through third grade will sing, dance, play piano, demonstrate gymnastics, tell jokes and more in 41 acts in the fourth annual "PV Idol."

Four "judges" will emulate their counterparts on the chart-topping "American Idol" TV competition on the Fox network.

"PV Idol" performances will not be graded, but winners will be crowned based on which act inspires the most donations from the audience.

Proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society. Last year, more than $11,000 was raised.

"In two hours, to be able to connect with parents and the community to give so much money is amazing," said acting principal Mike Henaghan.

This year, a portion will go to a Haiti orphanage or other child-centered aid for victims of the catastrophic earthquake on that island.

Admission is free, but those attending should bring a nonperishable item for the Greater Washington County Food Bank. Last year, more than 1,000 pounds of food was collected.

The idea for the cancer research and education fundraiser was hatched after a kindergartner was diagnosed with cancer. Teachers said the experience made youngsters aware of serious illness and prompted them to do something to help.

The child is currently in remission.

In addition to contributing to a great cause, Sandy McWilliams, mistress of ceremonies, said, the best part is the camaraderie among members of the close-knit school community.

"The whole school gets together. Kids, teachers, staff take part in this and have a really good time," she said.

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