Whiting Lane School’s inaugural ‘Rock N’ Run’ on May 14 raised $10,200 for new playground equipment and additional blacktop space at the West Hartford elementary school.

By Katie Cavanaugh

Students line up at the start line of the inaugural Rock N’ Run. Photo credit: Katie Cavanaugh

Students at all grade levels were sponsored by family and friends to participate in Whiting Lane’s ‘Rock N’ Run,’ a school-wide fundraising event that took place during their recess time on Thursday, May 14, 2015.

A towering blue and white balloon arch and upbeat music added to the excitement as children ran around the track.

Molly Smith, the Parent Teacher Organization fundraising chair, brought the idea to Whiting Lane with the intention of raising money for the school and increasing school spirit.

According to Myra Wahl, co-president of the PTO, every child was able to participate in the event, encouraging them to exercise and increasing enthusiasm for their school.

This event was able to stimulate the students’ minds along with their bodies.

“Each class has used a bar graph to keep track of their fundraising progress day-by-day,” Wahl said.  “All of the money raised goes right back into our school.”

Many town leaders came out to show their support.

Mayor Scott Slifka, Superintendent Tom Moore, and West Hartford Board of Education member Bruce Putterman helped keep track of how many laps each student ran.

Assistant Superintendent Nancy DePalma and Board of Education member Tammy Exum were also present at the run.

Slifka said he was impressed by the initiative of the parents involved to try something other than a stand-alone fundraiser.

“The parents have taken it upon themselves to raise money in a fun, cool way,” said Slifka.  “This is something that is much more fun and educational, and the fact that they were able to get the kids to be a part of it makes it very unique.”

Moore said the event reflected the upbeat nature of the school.

“For the fundraiser to be about healthy choices and healthy kids, it’s unique to Whiting Lane,” said Moore. “I couldn’t be more proud of the schools on days like this.”

According to Sherry Timmeny, co-president of the PTO, the Gengras family donated t-shirts for every student and staff member to wear, and ShopRite donated healthy snacks and $500 towards the run.

The event was successful in its community-building and fundraising, but the effort to to raise enough for the playground equipment and blacktop area is still ongoing. According to Wahl, Whiting Lane is still aiming to meet their goal of $15,000.

“The uCaring.com donor page is open for another week after the race,” said Wahl.

West Hartford Mayor Scott Slifka (left) and Board of Education member Bruce Putterman high-five runners as they participate in the inaugural Rock N’ Run. At right in back is Board of Education member Tammy Exum. Photo credit: Katie Cavanaugh

Whiting Lane’s mascot was on hand for the Rock N’ Run. Photo credit: Katie Cavanaugh