FORTVILLE — Students recently wrapped up a week of reading books to raise bucks for their elementary school.
Along with collecting $16,572, the read-a-thon organized by Fortville Elementary School’s parent-teacher organization encouraged the honing of an essential skill while showing how adaptations can be made to fundraising efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Brooke Bastin, president of the parent-teacher organization, said the PTO traditionally does a walk-a-thon for its big annual fundraiser. The group wanted to come up with an initiative this year that would allow both in-person students and those who chose to start off learning from home through the school’s virtual option. Some members had heard of read-a-thons finding success at other schools, so the PTO decided to give it a try.
“We thought, what a great event to get kids excited about reading, because it’s such an essential skill, Bastin said.
The read-a-thon was last week. In the time leading up to it, students sought donations for their efforts. During the week-long read-a-thon, they pledged to read at least 25 minutes a day. Younger students could have others read to them and count it toward their participation.
Students also had opportunities to win prizes based on how many reading minutes they logged.
One of the ways the PTO uses its funds is to offer it to teachers for special projects and ideas they have.
Stacy Muffler, principal of Fortville Elementary School, said the school’s PTO has always found innovative ways to raise funds.
“I love their approach and priority to make sure that our virtual students were included in the fundraiser as well,” she said, calling the PTO an integral part of supporting the school’s students.
The read-a-thon was a hit among the kids as well, she continued. Fortville Elementary School had a spirit week the same time as the read-a-thon. Each day had a theme, including one that encouraged kids to dress up like book characters.
Reading is a critical skill for elementary school students, Muffler said.
“One of the most important things we can do for kids is read to them, read with them, encourage them to read,” she said.
And not only reading academically, she continued, but for pleasure as well. Parents can set a good example by reading for pleasure themselves, she added.
Those interested in supporting Fortville Elementary School’s parent-teacher organization can reach out to [email protected].
