Commack Road Elementary School students participated in the “Pennies for Patients” campaign, raising approximately $8,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in just a few short weeks, the largest amount raised in Suffolk County this year. The collection encouraged students to donate their spare change and reinforced the school’s character education program, with an emphasis on empathy and caring.

“Every year, we focus on one large fundraiser to participate in,” remarked physical education teacher Carrie Rittberg, who organized the event. “Over the years, we have been able to do amazing things with all of the support of our school community.”

To motivate the students, staff members participated in reward tasks for every $500 raised. Goals included teachers dressing in formal wear for a day, a teacher tap dancing for students during morning arrival, and the ultimate $8,000 goal of seeing their principal, Jeannette Feminella, dance on the roof of the school.
    
“Our fundraising activities are great for building community. The students unite for a wonderful cause,” said Mrs. Feminella. “For a small school, we really come together. It is a credit to our families and our staff.”

The donations will go towards supporting the society’s mission, which is to find a cure for leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma and Hodgkin’s disease.