Over a few week period, teachers, students and staff at Ogilvie School got together to learn about the tragedy of the Haiti earthquake and soon realized the need for help. Both elementary and high school classes had discussions regarding the catastrophe, and soon teachers and students school-wide began to see the need for a fund raiser.

Ms. Tina Stevens talked about one of her students’ grandmother who volunteers in Haiti each year. The student brought in a poster with pictures and information about Haiti and the people that live there.

“This was a good segment into what had happened and how their life is even harder now,” states Ms. Stevens.

The students shared the information with the other first grade class.

The elementary student council decided to do a “Bring Change for a Change” fundraiser for the victims of the Haiti earthquake. A goal of $300 was set and if this was raised then students would be able to participate in a “crazy hair” day. Another goal of $500 was set and if this was accomplished, then they would also get an ice cream party.

The elementary was able to raise $507.57, so on Friday, Feb. 12, the elementary held their crazy-hair day and enjoyed ice-cream towards the end of the day.

To invoke discussions, high school kids were given the choice to watch a video clip on the Haiti devastation.

After watching the clip, students were encouraged to discuss what they saw and ask questions. The FFA chapter donated $100 and asked other departments or organizations to match or beat them. Den times were dedicated to raising money and at the conclusion of the fundraiser, the high school had raised $427.45.

The fundraiser began almost immediately following the earthquake and concluded on January 29th with a total of $935.02 raised school-wide.