The Independence Primary School community gathered the morning of May 10 for their annual Fun Run event, sponsored by the PTO. Embracing the theme "Kindness Runs the World," students, parents, and staff participated in an energetic and uplifting celebration of physical activity and compassion.
The day began differently for all students, as PreK-4 car riders, walkers, and bus riders started their morning at the Independence High School track for Muffins in the Morning at 8 a.m. This special event allowed families to enjoy a delicious breakfast together before the Fun Run festivities began at 8:30 a.m.
After attendance and announcements, the students, decked out in their "Cool to Be Kind" IPS shirts or other kindness apparel, eagerly lined up for the Fun Run. Beginning at 8:45 a.m., each grade level had a dedicated time slot to run, walk, and have fun on the Fun Run Course – the high school track.
The atmosphere was electric, with a DJ providing energetic tunes and various stations set up along the course. The goal was simple: be active and complete as many laps as possible, all while fostering a sense of community and kindness.
Around 9 a.m., the students rotated through five different stations, each designed to promote physical activity and foster a sense of community. With water bottles in hand and the school nurse on standby, the participants embraced the mid-50s temperatures and engaged in a variety of exercises and challenges.
The PTO provided a healthy snack for the students, ensuring they remained energized throughout the event. After approximately 15 minutes at each station, the students were bussed back to the Independence Primary School, arriving before their scheduled lunch times.
The fundraising goal for this year's Fun Run was to raise $20,000. To incentivize the students' efforts, the PTO offered an array of exciting prizes for those who worked hard to secure donations. Students had the opportunity to win grand prize baskets by earning raffle tickets for every $10 raised. The grand prizes included a squad car sendoff with a VIP Independence Police Officer, a family movie night bundle, a Snapology camp bundle, and the chance to be Principal of IPS for a day. Additionally, the student who raised the most money won the coveted "Mr. Dave for a Day" prize, and the grade that raised the most collectively was rewarded with a magic show.
Principal T.J. Ebert expressed his gratitude to the PTO and the entire school community for their unwavering support and participation in the Fun Run. "Our annual Fun Run is not only a celebration of physical activity but also a powerful reminder of the importance of kindness and compassion in our world," said Ebert. "Seeing our students, families, and staff come together in this spirit of unity and positivity is truly inspiring."
