The loud roars of excitement exploded out of East Central Elementary School’s gymnasium doors on Friday, November 19, as students, teachers and faculty members prepared to celebrate a milestone made during the school’s annual Get Fit fundraiser.
The celebration was in honor of the school raising a whopping $17,209… setting a record for the highest amount raised in school history.
Every year, faculty and students combine their efforts to raise money for the school’s PTO. During a two-month period, students take pledges from their community for meeting goals centered on health and well-being. During EC’s Get Fit event, students are part of team building activities, physical activities and games that all help students be mindful of their overall health.
During the celebration assembly, the winning classroom was recognized, as well as the students who raised the most money throughout the fundraiser.
To make it fun, East Central Principal, Dr. Wesley Styles, entered the gymnasium dressed as Mr. Strong. He then challenged and beat Mr. Fit a.k.a. EC teacher Gary Jones in a pushup contest. The two then took their respective places in the center of the gym, where students took turns pieing them in the face; an accomplishment that all EC students found hilarious.
All of the money raised will go straight back to East Central in numerous ways.
“We have a couple of projects we are wanting to complete to make EC better,” said Dr. Styles. “We are hoping to upgrade our gym sound system and install a large screen and projector for our gym. Additionally, we would like to upgrade our EC TV equipment to give our students better production equipment.”
He continued, “The money raised by the PTO also goes to support teacher grants, appreciation luncheons, and other smaller things throughout the year to support our teachers.”
“It is really amazing that our families are willing to support us both financially and through continued involvement in their children’s education,” smiled Dr. Styles. “We are very fortunate to have such amazing parents and families.”
Congratulations, EC!
