By J1 Reporter Margaret Hiatt

Most schools have some sort of yearly fundraiser to raise money for their school. Marian’s Walk-A-Thon (WAT) fundraiser is an event where students raise money for tuition assistance and are rewarded with a party if the school goal is met. The elementary school of St. Pius X/St. Leo (SPSL) also participates in a similarly yearly fundraising event called Race for Education. 

The main difference between Race for Education and WAT is the method of raising money. Director of the Race for Education, Mrs. Michaela Smith said, “We ask students to put down on mailing labels the names of family and friends who they think might want to sponsor a student to run in the Race for Education.” The students then write letters asking for donations. Some kids have full pages of mailing labels while some students only have one or two.

At Marian all fundraising is student-led and the only letters that are sent out are from the Student Board requesting donations from companies, for example: to sponsor the WAT T-shirts. Marian students practice various methods to raise money, some of which might be reaching out to family and friends. 

Another difference is where the money that is raised goes. Money raised for WAT goes towards tuition assistance which helps more girls be able to afford to attend Marian. Money raised for Race for Education goes towards curriculum enhancements in the classrooms, such as books, technology, and online programs for students. 

One thing that both schools agree on is that rewards are the best motivators. Smith said, “getting the students really jazzed about it is the key to success.” Marian holds a party once students finish the walk and SPSL gives snow cones to the students while running. Every student, no matter how many labels they bring in, participates in the race in May. There are various other rewards: a free day off, dress down days, and prizes for students and classrooms. Race for Education and Walk-A-Thon both share the similarity that the funds raised directly benefit their students.