Westlake parents, community partners host successful Fun Run

Students run in the Westlake Elementary School PTA’s inaugural Fun Run. Photo by Alison Nicole Photography

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Westlake Elementary School students and families hit the pavement at the school for the WES PTA’s inaugural Fun Run on Sept. 28 and 29. The event raised $48,880, with proceeds supporting an entire year of WES PTA activities including literacy programs, staff grants, STEM Fest, and Field Day.

“There was such a strong sense of community and collaboration driving the Fun Run,” said WES PTA President Sarah Hughes. “Everybody had the same goal of making it fun and memorable for the students: our Westlake Police Department School Resource Officers out there flying a drone, our high school volunteers showing Westlake pride and our wonderful parent volunteers.”

More than 170 WES parents and guardians volunteered at the Fun Run, acting as course monitors, working a water station and cheering on students. In a display of Westlake school spirit, students ran through the inflatable helmet the Westlake High School football team uses to enter the field during home games. The Westlake Demon mascot and Westlake High School cheerleaders also made appearances.

“It was incredible to be a part of this event from start to finish,” said Westlake parent and event co-chair Reagan DeLuca. “Our community sponsors and our school administration supported us 100 percent.” 

This year’s Fun Run marks the first time that WES PTA’s largest fundraiser was organized entirely by PTA volunteers, after several years of hiring an event company. More than 1,200 students participated in the event. A committee of six Westlake parents spent months coordinating logistics and communications. 

“I was so excited to be on the team of volunteers for the Fun Run,” said committee member Elyse Moore. “To help plan the kids’ prizes, coordinate the preschool dance party, and dress up in funny costumes during the month of September; it was all worth it to see the smiles on the kids’ faces. The event was such a success, and I am already excited for next year.”

Fundraising was optional but many families chose to do so. The top fundraisers in each grade were Colin Garvey, Lexi Lorello, Carson Chang, Natalie C. (who was also the top fundraiser in the school, raising $1,325), Cash Moore and Marcus Hughes. 

“Our PTA, our families, and our community are amazing!” said Greg Plantner, Head Principal of Westlake Elementary School. “The time and generosity shown by everyone involved truly highlights our ‘school team’ approach, and we are grateful to have so many invested partners who support our students. The entire school had a great time at these events, and we are looking forward to even more PTA-sponsored activities for students and staff throughout the year thanks to so many generous donations.”