Sara Sandstrom-Kobi, Nederland. Running, running, running…students running everywhere! That was the scene at the Nederland Elementary School gymnasium last Thursday. The annual Jog-a-thon is the biggest PTA fundraiser at NES.

Because of the cold and snowy weather the Jog-a-thon was moved indoors this year. This did not put a damper on the enthusiasm and energy from the students or the parents who came to help. 

This year the kids ran lap after lap around the gym and there was an obstacle course set up in the middle for students to climb on and jump through. All students Kindergarten through fifth grade participated. 

All the money that is raised goes to the Nederland Elementary Parent Teacher Association. The PTA uses a portion of the money to support NED Shred. NED Shred is two days of skiing and lessons at Eldora Mountain Resort for all Nederland Elementary students. The money is also used to support outdoor education, field trips and other activities. It keeps these programs at an affordable cost for families.

The Jog-a-thon benefits the school and supports all students during their time in elementary school. 

The kids were not the only ones running. Some teachers and parents were seen running laps. Principal Reckert ran with every class that came into the gym and physical education teacher Ms. Simone was at the microphone cheering everyone on. 

The Jog-a-thon is a fun and healthy activity. And these kids sure can run fast. 

(Originally published in the October 17, 2019, print edition of The Mountain-Ear.)