La Conner Elementary students take victory laps

Call it a win-win situation.

La Conner Elementary students raised money for supplemental learning materials and classroom supplies while getting exercise at Whittaker Field Friday afternoon.

It was all part of the school’s annual walk-a-thon, which raises funds based on the number of laps students run or walk around the quarter-mile campus track.

Students gleefully circled the oval – some strolling, others jogging, and a few even sprinting – to upbeat music piped through an overhead speaker system.

“The kids have a good time,” said Principal Bev Bowen, among the many staff members who strode alongside the students. “Some of the older ones can go on for two or three hours.”

Even younger students had little or no trouble completing four or more laps.

Perhaps the most impressive effort was turned in by fifth grader Kody Suit, who did his laps on crutches.

Ample opportunity was given for water and rest breaks on a day that began on the cool side and gradually became warmer.

Staff led by example throughout.

“The teachers walk with the students,” Bowen said, “and encourage them to go the extra mile.”

That was true both literally and figuratively.