Dr. Seuss said it best - “You’re off to great places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, So get on your way!” Meyersdale Area Elementary School is excited to participate in the 6th Annual Red Raider Walk-a-Thon on September 22. 

Sponsored by the Meyersdale Area Elementary Educational Boosters, this annual event has raised more than $51,500 in six years. 

Christa Wiltrout, President of the Meyersdale Area Elementary Educational Boosters, said the continued success of this annual event is a testament to the unfaltering support offered by the Meyersdale community, from residents, organizations and businesses. Wiltrout also credited the students, faculty and staff for their unwavering enthusiasm and commitment to making the Annual Red Raider Walk-a-Thon a fun event for all participants. 

Students in grades Kindergarten through fifth grade will be seeking sponsors for their efforts, as well as flat donations. Students in kindergarten and first grade will have 30 minutes to walk as many half-laps as they can. Older students, those in second through fifth grade, will have one hour to complete as many full laps as they are capable. Following the walk-a-thon, each student will be given a tally of the laps they have completed.

Wayne Conklin, of Music Express, will be volunteering his time and talents to the walk-a-thon, providing music and fun to get the students excited as they complete their laps.

Members of the National Honor Society will be assisting during the event, offering cheers and support to the students as well as preparing sno-cones as treats.

Pledge forms and donations are due at the school by Friday, October 6. Checks should be made payable to the Meyersdale Area Educational Boosters. Donations are tax-deductible. 

Funds raised will directly benefit students in a wide variety of ways. The Boosters support classroom projects, field trips, special events and activities and much more. 

The Red Raider Walk-a-Thon is the only fundraiser the Meyersdale Area Educational Boosters will be holding this school year and the community’s support is crucial to their continued support of our youngest Red Raiders. 

“The Educational Boosters are always looking for new opportunities to support students both in and out of the classroom,” added MAES Principal Devin Pritts. 

The Meyersdale Area Elementary Educational Boosters meet on the third Monday of each month at 3 p.m. in the elementary forum. Family members of students, in grades K through fifth grade are invited to attend and support this organization and their efforts. For more information, please contact the Meyersdale Area Elementary office at 814-634-8311.

Wiltrout said the continued success of this annual event is a testament to the unfaltering support offered by the Meyersdale community, from residents, organizations and businesses. Wiltrout also credited the students, faculty and staff for their unwavering enthusiasm and commitment to making the Annual Red Raider Walk-a-Thon a fun event for all participants.