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Reminder Assistant Editor EAST LONGMEADOW - On April 27, the staff and students of Mapleshade Elementary School will join together to run for funds in their 15th annual Jog-a-long fund-raiser. After collecting donations for their cardiovascular efforts, everyone at the school will walk, run or jog a 1/8 mile track for one hour. Proceeds from the event will go towards field trips and enrichment programs such as monthly assemblies featuring educational entertainers. "Every little bit helps because enrichment programs range from $500 all the way to $1,500 or $2000, and that is generally just a 45 minute program that helps enhance the curriculum," explained Physical Education Teacher Diana Demetrius. "There is no standard budget money in school district for these." Unless someone is injured, 100 percent of staff and students participate in the event. Annual donation totals have ranged from $5,000-$12,000. Some students bring in hundreds of dollars each. Student accomplishments on the track have also wowed the school's staff. "We actually have students who set goals every year," Demetrius said. "We have some fourth and fifth grade students who are able to go about five miles in an hour which is absolutely incredible. One year we had a student hit six miles." The event, which will run 10 - 11 a.m., is also about fun and socializing as a group. Music is played to motivate everyone and a water station is always on hand. In the chance of bad weather, staff has devised an indoor track plan within the halls of the school. "It is special because it's 100 percent of the building outside together for 100 percent of the time," Demetrius said. "It's as much a socially motivating time as it is fund-raiser. The students also get the opportunity to see the staff out there moving with them, so it motivates both ways." Sponsors and donations are being accepted until the event begins. For more information or to donate, stop by the school's office or call 525-5485. |
