PHOTOS BY REBEKAH PRICE

Some students at West Side Elementary cleared more than 30 laps on the track as part of their annual Walk-A-Thon Friday. Principal John Wright said they raised $4,063.50 slightly more than last year. He said it will help fund the new playground and computer upgrades.

Alainya Hare, West Side Parent Teacher Advisory Council president explained the money is raised through pledges per lap walked, and the students also sold T-shirts and purchased concessions at the event.

“This helps to raise money for the playground, but it also gives them time to get out and walk and get some healthy exercise,” Hare said as she operated the snow cone machine, a new feature this year.

Mrs. Laura Blevins 4th grade class raised the most money at $360.50, and they will win ice cream sundaes. The top four individual donors were Xander Jones, who raised $250 and was awarded $100; Noah Luke Miller, who raised $186 and was awarded $75; Lily Walker, who raised $161 and was awarded $50; and Alena Little, who raised $150 and was awarded $25.

The first-ever ham luncheon last month was a huge success, Wright said, raising $11,000, and putting the school that much closer to its goal.

The new playground will be handicap accessible and will provide a number of upgrades for students, encouraging physical activity.

The names of students that raised at least $10 were entered into a pool to win one of ten door donated by First Assist Urgent Care. Hare said they also provided goodie bags for the entire school.