Even though Boston is 3,000 miles away, the victims of the recent marathon bombings are in the minds and hearts of the students at Osborn Two-Way Immersion Dual Academy. Over 750 students from Osborn participated in a jog-a-thon on Friday to raise money for the victims of the Boston Marathon bombings.
Osborn students raised $3,000 for The One Fund Boston, set up by Boston Mayor Thomas Menino and Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick to support marathon bombing victims. Over $23 million through the OFB has been raised nationwide.
“The students who participated were able to retrieve the funds through sponsors,” said Principal Ed Ewing. “We could not have made this event possible if it weren’t for the members of the PTA who put everything together.”
Students from each grade ran a total of 20 minutes around the field on Friday while teachers, parents and administrators cheered them on.
“The students were highly motivated and ran their hearts out,” said PTA member Lisa Stewart. “Teachers accompanied the students by providing fresh water and making sure they hydrated the entire time they had to run. We also set up a DJ to keep the mood alive and a special station where students can let loose and show off their dance moves.”
Stewart, a former Boston Marathon runner, presented the idea for the jog-a-thon before the PTA after the marathon bombings and believed that the best way to help raise money for the victims was to run.
“I was supposed to run the Boston Marathon this year but decided to pull out of the race the Friday before the event because of my conflicting schedule,” said Stewart. “After the bombing I decided that Osborn should kick it up a notch and help the victims.”
Students were also given an incentive for raising the most money in the classroom. The winning class will receive a special party courtesy of the PTA, along with surprise goodies.
Third grade student Iliana Whittaker raised over $50 by gathering sponsors including her mom, grandparents and other family members.
“This money will be put to good use and help out the ones that need it the most,” said Whittaker. “I’m glad I was able to make a difference.”
