Sandy Hook Elementary School was overflowing with cheer and excitement after the school community raised roughly $27,000 for its PTA through its annual Walk-A-Thon event, held on October 14 this year.

Raising that much money also earned the students a chance to see some of their teachers dress in costumes and participate in a “crazy relay race.”

For the fundraiser, students were challenged to raise money for the PTA. Each classroom and grade level that raised the most was logged by the PTA, and special awards were announced at the event for raising the most money. The entire school community also earned awards for raising certain amounts of money.

The Walk-A-Thon and following assembly were held outside. As students and staff exited the building for the event, music played and the school’s mascot, an eagle, greeted them with a wave.

PTA Co-President Heather Franse and PTA members Allyson Story, Megan Jolly, and Evie Weinberger oversaw the event. Money raised will fund cultural arts and enrichment programming along with enhancing the school’s makerspace.

Once the students and staff exited the building, the entire school community completed laps around the parking lot. Parents were invited to attend the event and they met their child to complete laps or they waved from the sidelines.

After the laps around the parking lot were completed students sat outside on a field as school principal Dr Kathy Gombos announced the classes that raised the most money.

Later, Story congratulated the school community for “a great job walking today.” She then announced all of the special things the students earned by raising money.

“You crushed it. You guys did an amazing job,” said Story.

By raising all the money, the students earned a week of no homework, a pajama day, and more. For raising $27,000 the school earned the “crazy relay race,” which then took place to the students’ delight.

“Sandy Hook, we are so proud of you,” said Story.

Education Reporter Eliza Hallabeck can be reached at eliza@thebee.com.