McGilvra springing into fall with school fundraiser, food drive

The McGilvra PTA is packing this school year with fundraising and community outreach events.

There will be two in October.

Move-a-Thon

The Move-a-Thon is a student-led fundraiser, where they reach out to neighbors for pledges before running, walking and parkour-ing around the schoolyard. There are also opportunities to practice yoga inside.

Formerly known as the Run-a-Thon, the name changed with the addition of obstacle course structures last year. Kong Academy will be back again this year to help set that up.

This year’s fundraising goal is $75,000, the same as last year, which is roughly $175 in pledges per student.

“If we reach that, all the kids get to go to a rewards assembly in November,” said McGilvra PTA member Dana Rohde.

The Move-a-Thon helps the PTA provide school supplies, programs and positions at McGilvra, such as a school counselor and art, reading and math specialists, while also promoting health and exercise.

The Move-a-Thon will take place 10-11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 8. Donations are accepted at mcgilvra.donortools.com.

Fall Carnival

The McGilvra Elementary School Fall Carnival takes place 6-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 25, and is open to the community.

Filled with carnival games — at a suggested donation of $1.50 each — the event raises money for the Wildcat Food Pantry at McGilvra that supports students experiencing food insecurity, including during holiday breaks.

“There are a number of kids that benefit from that,” Rohde said.

Nonperishable food items will also be accepted during the fall carnival, which is taking place in the school’s new lunchroom.

Bert’s Red Apple is the presenting sponsor. The original grocery store was opened by Bert Croshaw in 1937. His son Roger took over the business in 1976.

“He went to McGilvra, and he’s always giving back to the school,” Rohde said.