Disney world tickets. Apparently, Disney gives them to school auctions for free. We won 4 tickets at our school auction for a little less than face value and walked away very happy. We also got a tour of NBC for 10 which was really interesting.

I love experiences for things I couldn't ordinarily do. For example, in law school I got a tour of a maximum-security prison and lunch with my congressional representative. Around here I've seen (and wish I'd gotten) tours of the Supreme Court, Senate building (including subway), etc. Neither of my kids' current schools has auctions and I miss doing that cool stuff.

Staff items are great!

For silent auctions: restaurant gift certificates, week at summer day camp, theme baskets. American Girl doll of the year (assuming it's elementary school). Tickets to taping of TV shows (Jon Stewart, Meet the Press), bonus with autographed book by host. Dinner cooked by a family with their "specialty" - includes entree, salad, bread, dessert, bottle of wine, all on a theme. Live auctions: trip to wine country or resort (Greenbrier, Sea Island, etc.), overseas trip, progressive dinners, Principal for a Day.

The teachers and administrators at our school really enjoy doing the play dates and all bite their nails until someone cracks the ice and places the opening bid. High anxiety and drama! haha No one wants to get skunked.

Sports tickets

OP here- these are great ideas, thank you! Anyone else?