The Cumberland County Public Schools Foundation raised over $4,000 during its annual Walk for Education held Oct. 9 at the high school’s track.

Students and community members were invited to participate in the event to help raise money for grants and scholarships.

“It was a perfect day for walking and, as always, it brought joy to my heart to see our students and staff walking to raise money for student scholarships and teacher grants,” said Dr. Amy Griffin, the division superintendent.

According to Barbara Gamage, the secretary of the foundation, “the annual Walk for Education provides an outward and visible sign that our community is committed to achieving excellence in our public schools.”

Gamage said the current totals raised for all three schools in Cumberland equaled $4,276.89. The elementary school had a total of $2,426.65, the middle school came in at $1,277.40 and thehigh school raised $563.86, Gamage said.

“Last May we gave out $8,000 in teacher grants to help them with things they needed for their classrooms and [items] the school couldn’t afford in its budget and $22,050 in scholarships to 23 high school students,” said Gamage.

Throughout the week of the walk, money was raised through various methods. “Students bring it in during the week of the walk and community members either mail a donation or come and walk sometime during the day,” said Gamage. “The elementary school did pennies on Monday, nickels on Tuesday, dimes on Wednesday, quarters on Thursday and dollars on Friday.  They all did a great job,” she said.

“Our family has contributed to Walk for Education over the years by sponsoring our children as they walked on this special day,” said volunteer Jennifer Turner.

“After my oldest son received a Cumberland County Public Schools Foundation Scholarship this past May, this became an even more personal cause that I was determined to support,” she said.

“We appreciate that members of the community and civic organizations [who came to walk, show support and raise money with us,” said Griffin. “Getting out into the fresh air, walking and talking with friends not only is good for our physical health but is good for our hearts and souls,” she said.

According to their website, the Cumberland County Public Schools Foundation was established in 2001 and strives to provide a positive educational experience for students.

“My favorite part of the event is the spirit of community and school spirit I see on the Walk for Education day,” said Turner. “Teachers and parents come together with students and work to make it a festive atmosphere and to encourage the students to celebrate the reason they are walking,” she said.