Central School’s Monster Run raised more than $54,000, with each grade taking turns on the course and cheering for their classmates Oct. 30 in South Berwick.
The school’s parent-teacher organization hosted the fundraiser with help from volunteers and donations from local businesses.
Proceeds will go toward playground improvements, classroom grants and field trips, said Christina Towers, president of the Central School PTO.
“We had a great turnout this year. It’s been our best turnout yet,” Towers said. “We’re thankful and fortunate to have such a supportive community.”
Grade levels ran at different times throughout the day, with parents and other classes cheering from the sidelines. Students in white T-shirts with colorful monster designs lined up beneath a large inflatable arch before setting off. Several wore purple headbands, and adults offered high-fives along the course.
Students also had a reason to look forward to the final race. At an October assembly introducing the fundraiser, they were told that staff members would compete in an inflatable race if the total topped $50,000.
With that mark surpassed, staff members took their turn racing in front of the students to close out the day.