As organizers prepare for the Vashon Sheepdog Classic, which will take place at the end of this month, they’re hoping to again raise funds for Partners in Education (PIE) through a dog sponsorship fundraiser that’s part of the three-day sheepherding trials.

Several individuals and businesses have already paid $100 to sponsor the competing dog of their choice. The sponsor of the dog that earns the most points by the end of the trial will win a three-day stay at a vacation home in Whistler, British Columbia.

All funds raised through the dog sponsorship, called “Smart Dogs for Smart Kids,” as well as all proceeds from the trials, will go to PIE, an Island nonprofit that provides teachers, administrators and students with grants for special classroom projects and continued education.

More than 100 dogs are expected to compete with their handlers at this year’s sheepdog classic, which will again take place on 30 acres of rolling hills at Misty Isle Farms.

Last year, more than 2,000 people attended the trials — the first on the Island since 2002 — raising nearly $5,000 for PIE.  Maggi McClure, who spearheaded last year’s event, said in a press release that organizers this year expect even more spectators. They also expect to raise more funds for PIE.

“It is growing into one of the prestigious working dog events on the West coast,” she said.

The Vashon Sheepdog Classic will take place from dawn to dusk, Friday to Sunday, Sept. 30 to Oct. 1, at Misty Isle Farms. Entry is $5, and children 12 and under are free. For more information or to sponsor a dog, see www.vashonsheepdogclassic.com.