Approximately 550 participants and countless volunteers celebrated the 10th Annual Student Stride for Education Saturday, raising almost $20,000 for the Washougal Schools Foundation, a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization that provides teacher grants and scholarships.
The Student Stride for Education aims to promote fitness and learning. It included a 5K race for experienced runners, closed-course runs for grades kindergaren through fifth-grade, and a ‘kiddie dash’ for those 5 and younger. In its 10 years, approximately $200,000 has been raised through the sponsorship of local businesses.
“Throughout the organization of this event it was very clear just how dedicated our teachers, volunteers and sponsors are to our students,” said Stephanie Eakins, event coordinator. “From the principals meeting their kids at the finish line to the parents staffing the registration tables, this event demonstrates a belief in the possibilities of these kids to be leaders and the importance of living a healthy lifestyle.”
Watercare Industrial Services and Waste Connections have been major sponsors for all 10 years, having donated $25,000 each over that time. Discovery Dental has been the title sponsor for the past four years donating approximately $20,000 in that time.
