Are you Boston Strong? Sippican School is! Students in Nicole Radke’s fourth-grade classroom organized and ran the school’s most successful charity fundraiser in just two days. Upon learning about the tragedy of the Boston Marathon Bombings and reflecting upon the courage and bravery of the first responders, students asked their teacher, “Can we do something to help the people who are hurt?”
In just two days, the students were granted permission by Principal Rivet to raise money for the One Fund Boston, the fundraiser designed by Governor Deval Patrick and Boston Mayor Tom Menino, to assist those physically and emotionally affected by the events on April 15.
The “Radkids” went to work immediately. Recesses were spent painting posters and decorating the hallways of Sippican School. Students volunteered to read both morning and afternoon announcements to bring awareness to a Boston Strong Spirit Day on April 26. The school community was encouraged to dress in the traditional colors of the BAA (Boston Athletic Association) and/or wear sports gear depicting a Boston sports team to show unity, pride, and spirit.
On April 26, the Radkids’ efforts were rewarded immediately. Students rushed into the building sporting their favorite team’s T-shirts, donning blue and yellow ribbons in their hair, and even wearing face paint with the motto “Boston Strong” on their cheeks. Teachers could also be spotted wearing blue and yellow outfits and wearing Boston Bruin jerseys. In the end, the students counted spare change and collected $1,057 from the school community. Most importantly, they learned the valuable lesson that we can come together to stand as one and help those in need.
