Alton Elementary School Donates Over $5,000 Toward Blood Cancer Research

ALTON - Alton’s North Elementary School has raised over $5,000 for the Light the Night campaign.

This three-week campaign encourages students and families to donate to Blood Cancer United, previously known as the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. As they finish up their third week of fundraising, they are sitting at over $5,100 raised, beating last year's record of $4,850. Teacher Kim Scheurer and Principal Lisa Harris expressed their excitement to teach the kids about giving back.

“It creates a sense of teamwork and compassion. And it shows how we can come together as a community and make a difference in the lives of others,” said Scheurer, a second grade teacher who organizes the campaign. “It's good to bring the kids together, North together, to help people, especially children who are fighting blood cancers. It's a way for our school to give back and raise awareness and help fund research for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.”

For 15 years, Scheurer has sponsored the Light the Night campaign at every school she taught at. North Elementary has risen to the challenge to support the campaign.

During the first week, students could participate in dress-up days. The student council, led by Jason Chapman, sold Smencils in the morning before school during the second week. This third week sees students buying a strip of duct tape for $1, which they can then use to tape a staff member to the wall.

Harris commended Scheurer, Chapman, and the other staff members who “go above and beyond” to support the students and teach them “the importance of service, compassion and helping others.”

“Their enthusiasm and willingness to give back truly reflects the heart of our school,” she said. “At North Elementary, one of our core goals is to make all people feel important, and our students are living that out through their generosity and compassion.”

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Harris and Scheurer thanked community partners for their help, including Home Depot for donating the duct tape and Cope Plastics for the Smencils. Little Caesar’s will also donate pizza for a pizza party at the end of the campaign. Santiago-Argonne Veteran Association purchased a case of Smencils, and the owner's son, fourth grader Liam Alexander, donated $700. The school noted that several students’ families have made sizable donations toward the cause.

“I couldn't do it without the support of the community,” Scheurer said. “I really love seeing the kids want to help out and want to make a difference in the lives of others.”

As the campaign wraps up, Scheurer looks forward to calculating their total donation amount and setting an even more ambitious goal for next year. Scheurer and Harris agree that helping the organization is the most important part, but it’s equally fulfilling to teach their students about caring for others and giving back.

“It is inspiring to watch our students lead with kindness and show that even small contributions can create a big difference for those who need it most,” Harris added. “I am so incredibly proud of our North community!”

For more information about Blood Cancer United, including how to donate, visit their official website.

This Featured Article is sponsored by Alton Community Unit School District #11. To get your business or organization featured on www.Riverbender.com, contact us at sales@riverbender.com.

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