Link IB World School Participates In St. Jude Math-a-thon

From Clarkstown Central School District: Every year the students at Link IB World School, headed by Principal Francine Cuccia, are encouraged to participate in student actions. Actions can be taken on by any of the students in Kindergarten through 5th grade. Students choose things that are important to them and design an action to help an organization.

The 5th grade student action this year at Link IB World School in the Clarkstown Central School District was to involve the entire school in the St. Jude Math-a-thon. The Math-a-thon is a St. Jude fundraiser where children do math problems and get sponsors to donate money for the cause. St. Jude's was chosen as the 5th grade action this year as it is "children helping other children." St. Jude's doesn't ask for a penny from families who need their services. All travel, food and medical expenses are covered by donations. The drive started on March 3rd with 2 assembly programs meant to get the students informed and interested in helping the kids of St. Jude. Students were encouraged to get sponsors, do math problems and collect donations from family and friends. The children were very enthusiastic about this cause and made posters and daily announcements to the students and staff to try and motivate them to participate.

The Math-a-thon was organized by the 5th grade teachers, Leighann Zeller, Danielle Clancy and Sophia Poggi. The original goal of the fundraiser this year was to raise $5,000, but within days the donations totaled well over $5,000. In the end, over 100 families participated and raised over $20,000 in 2-3 week's time. The Link families really came through with some children and their families bringing in over $1,000 each.

"We hope to continue to raise money for St. Jude's next year. Who knows? Maybe we can top this year's total!"

Image Courtesy Of Clarkstown Central School District