Riverside Intermediate School 5th grade math and science teacher, Crystal Dennie, knows first hand how ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) affects a family. Her mother died only four years ago of the disease.
On Thursday, Dennie thanked her fellow teachers and students in the school for raising $700 in just four days for the cause. Late Thursday evening Riverside Principal Jeni Hirschy said money is still coming in and she thinks the total could go over $800.
Dennie said, “I donate regularly to ALS Guardian Angels, so I chose not to do the ice bucket challenge myself. Instead, I said if Riverside teachers donated, I would match their donation up to $200.”
ALS Guardian Angels provide help for families and patients dealing with the financial and emotional problems of the disease.
But that wasn’t the end of the deal. Dennie added, “If every teacher donated, students could drop ice water on me and my co-teacher, Caren Dove.” And it didn’t stop there. Hirschy and Assistant Principal Jeff Brooke said students could dump ice water on their heads as well if the staff raised over $200.
All four made good on the challenge just before the end of the school day Thursday. Hirschy said, “It was really ice water and it really was fun.” She said the sixth grade band played “Jaws” as the water was being dumped, adding to the fun.
Dennie said, “I am proud to work with such amazing staff that helps towards the organization that helped my mom.”
Hirschy echoed Dennie’s appreciation saying, “I am so very proud of the students and staff at Riverside. We continue to work together for great causes.” She called it a “great team effort”.
Carol Anders Correspondent
