June 9, 2006

Running for a reason

Jog-A-Thon raises $15,000 for Castlemont programs

Library, outdoor life lab, field trips, computer lab benefit

By Tonya Lonac
Special to the Times

Students from Castlemont in Campbell participated in a schoolwide Jog-A-Thon May 25 to raise money for the elementary school. The annual event, which more than 700 students participated in, raised over $15,000.

Running alongside the children was Campbell Vice Mayor Dan Furtado and Castlemont Principal Shannon Gilligan.

“The Jog-A-Thon is a Castlemont tradition that families look forward to each year,” said Lincoln Heacock, a Castlemont parent and president of the Home and School Club, which organizes the fundraiser. “There is a sense of pride with students, teachers, parents and siblings all joining in on the fun and running for a good cause.”

Proceeds from the event support Castlemont programs including the library, outdoor life lab, field trips and the computer lab. Students collect pledges from the community and then walk or run around a quarter-mile track on behalf of Castlemont.

In addition to raising funds, the Jog-A-Thon is also a way to encourage physical activity says Heacock. “Students gear up for the event and train with practice runs. Volunteers and families cheer the kids on, celebrating their success.”

Elise Bankosh, second grade, (seen running out in front) ran 28 laps!

An incentive program was added this year to reward students for the pledges they earn. “Kids love to win so we’ve put together a prize package, including a new bicycle as top prize, that added fun and excitement,” said Jennifer Brindle, Jog-A-Thon coordinator.

Also new was a “Principal’s Running Team,” made up of two students awarded from each grade level, that kicked off the event with Castlemont Principal Shannon Gilligan. The Home and School Club provided all participants with a complimentary Jog-A-Thon T-shirt and lunch. Castlemont student Jake Garcia, who won the annual design contest, created this year's T-shirt design, which included a camping theme.

All in all it was a great day for a great cause.