Some 770 South Jordan Elementary students have spent days knocking on doors, selling lemonade and baked goods, and even painted rocks and 3D-printed figurines, all to support school programs and field trips. 

Not only were they successful in surpassing their goal of $35,000 with $39,704.71, but they also got a bonus reward: cheering on Principal Beth Pollock and their teachers race in inflatable costumes, making the success become memorable.

“I’ve seen kids bring $1 a day so they can contribute to it,” PTA President Karen Cooley said about the third annual no-fuss fundraiser.

Daily prize drawings from local businesses kept the excitement high, with students hoping their names would be picked for gift cards, theater tickets and other items. 

Classes were rewarded collectively; for hitting $500 in donations, they could have a dance with the school mascot. Schoolwide incentives included a treat at recess time and a popcorn party, which ensured all students were included, she said.

The inflatable race was the grand finale for meeting the top fundraising goal. More than 20 teachers joined in, competing fiercely and delighting the students. 

“The kids were talking about it all day,” Cooley said. “It was ridiculous, fun and chaos in the best way.” 

Funds raised support field trips, birthday celebrations, teacher appreciation, classroom grants, field day and programs such as Battle of the Books.

“It shows how much the community cares and can come together when we ask for it, to volunteer, to donate, to show their support,” she said. “I’m grateful for them; we're lucky to have the community that we do.”