Students raise money remotely for Read-A-Thon

RIDGEFIELD — The parent-teacher organization at Union Ridge Elementary School went remote for the first time for its annual Read-A-Thon fundraiser. The event is the largest fundraiser for Union Ridge, with all proceeds benefiting school activities and teacher grants. Parents thought of several activities that could be done at home, including a reading Bingo card, videos of local celebrities reading children’s books and Facebook photo contests. Students were still able to raise funds with reading pledges while the parent-teacher organization used an online site for donations. Every student who raised $10 or more earned a prize. Students raised $8,400, with Rylee Roth, Grayson Ashenfelter, Madeline Sullens, and Robert Kenck taking top honors. Students could also participate in a door decorating contest. They picked a book theme, then decorated a door or window at home. Naomi Heim, Eli Stone and Madeline Sullens came up with winning designs. Parent-teacher organization Co-President Heidi Rashoff was proud of how well everyone adapted to the changes. “It has been so exciting to be able to continue to do fundraisers and events from home for the kids,” she said.