South River, Southern Students Set for Solo 'Plunge'

Anne Arundel County Public School students will have their own day to plunge in this year's Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge.

All other participating schools in Maryland will plunge on Jan. 25 but, due to exams, Anne Arundel County students' day in the water was rescheduled—they will plunge on Feb. 1 at 9:30 a.m.

Last year, South River High's "Snowhawks" finished second in the entire state when it came to donations for the event. The local kids were only outdone by students at Arundel High. 

According to team leaders at South River High, the school has raised approximately $9,000 for this year's plunge, involving more than 300 students. Based on Twitter reactions, many students are less than thrilled about the decision. 

The annual Plungefest, hosted by the Maryland State Police, helps to raise money for Special Olympics Maryland. Thousands of plungers, sponsored by friends, family and neighbors, toss themselves into frigid, Chesapeake Bay water. 

This year's main event, which is open to the public, is set for Jan. 26 at Sandy Point State Park. 

Local schools had a big success last  year. Students garnered nearly $150,000 in donations to Special Olympics Maryland. Arundel High School students led the state by raising more than $40,000 with its 469 plungers. South River High School came in second in the state by raising $33,930 with 301 team members. 

Check out a video of last year's event here.