Ten National Junior Honor Society students and two staff members from the school jumped into the chilly water in unison and emerged with smiles on their faces.
“It was around 40 degrees, windy and raining,” said Summerfield Special Education teacher Kaitlyn Townsley. “I don’t know the temperature of the water, but it was shockingly cold, even compared to the outside temperatures.”
The annual event raises money for athletes with disabilities throughout the state. Families were encouraged to donate online, and students could contribute via Dollar Jeans Day, for the opportunity to dress down for the day. The school raised $1,422 for the organization.
Townsley said students were excited to help raise money for others who do not always have the same opportunities as they do.
“As a special education teacher, I've built positive relationships with many middle school students throughout the school year. So, when I had a fun opportunity for them to support students I teach, they were so excited to get involved. Many of the participants have classes with students who participate in Special Olympics events, so it was easy for them to get excited and connect it to a real cause.”
The participants dressed up as cowboys and cowgirls to fit in with their school’s Stampede mascot, and one student was awarded a trophy for Best Individual Costume.
Eighth grader Avery Parrish said she was impressed by the event and the turnout from her school.
“It was fun to see students come together to spread awareness for a special cause and nice to see high school students volunteering with Special Olympics to run the whole event.”
Great work supporting a wonderful cause, Summerfield!
About Summerfield Charter Academy
Summerfield Charter Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Summerfield, North Carolina, serving students in kindergarten through eighth grade. It is part of the National Heritage Academies (NHA®) network, which includes over 100 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through high school across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
Visit Summerfield Charter Academy's blog to read more stories like this.