In what officials for the private school system called a strong start toward a fund-raising goal of $500,000 for the 2008-09 school year, Rainier Christian Schools generated $120,000 in gifts and pledges during its fall banquet Oct. 17.

Rainier Christian serves 950 students at five campuses in the south King County area, including a middle school in Covington and Maple Valley Preschool and Childcare.

More fund-raising is planned for an auction next April in Kent, Rainier officials said.