Knapp Elementary Hosts Walk-A-Thon and Yard Sale Fundraiser

On Saturday morning, kicked off its first ever walk-a-thon fundraiser, with more than 50 students participating.  Upon arrival, the students and parents were brought together to stretch their muscles, as well as lay out the guidelines for the event.

"Early this morning we got everyone into the gym, and we did cooperative high five exercises, to get everyone stretched out and excited," said David Sayers, Knapp Elementary physical education teacher.

Once stretched and ready, the Knapp students took on a half-mile loop, challenging themselves on how many times they could make it around during the one-hour event. 

Sayers said that some students had walked three to four miles, with a few that actually hit the five-mile mark.

"We decided to do this to help fund our end of the year field trips," said Kris Hubler, who helped coordinate the event. "Today was Knapp's first walk-a-thon, and we're happy with the turnout."

There was also a second fundraiser, running parallel to the walk-a-thon, thanks to the efforts of the 6th grade fundraising committee. 

Many parents of the 6th grade students rallied together to hold a mass yard sale, with items ranging from massage tables, stereo equipment, clothing and children's toys. 

All proceeds went to help fund the end of the year trip for the 6th graders, which was speculated to involve laser tag and a sports center.

Knapp Elementary's principal Joe Mazza Jr. seemed extremely pleased with the event, as he walked up and down the yard sale speaking to parents and coordinators, doing his absolute best to stay out of the Patch lens. 

Fortunately, the rest of the participants weren't as camera shy, as you'll see in our photo gallery.

Going forward, Sayers said he wants to make it an annual event, and continue to add to it.

"We're going to keep doing it, adding more as we go.  Maybe next year we can do a fitness walk, with stations and such," said Sayers.