West Boylston students organizing 'Dodging Cancer' fundraiser

WEST BOYLSTON – Three fourth-graders are pulling together for a fundraiser at the Major Edwards Elementary School.

Linnea Manjarrez, Nora Skehan, and Hannah Kursonis, all 10-year-old fourth-graders, presented their plan to the School Committee last week.

“The students approached me after Thanksgiving about running a (dodge ball) fundraiser,” Principal Richard Meagher told the School Committee before handing the presentation to the three students.

The plan is a “Dodging Cancer fundraiser to raise money for kids who have cancer,” Linnea said.

It would cost $1 to enter, with the funds being donated.

“My brother did it before us,” Linnea said. “We thought it was good to bring it back.” She added that “a family member had cancer and died from it.”

Teams will be formed in two divisions, K-2, and 3-5 that will compete Saturday, Feb. 29 at the school.

“We’re sending the money to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital,” Nora said.

“Prizes for winners will include bracelets and stickers,” Hannah said.

The board voted unanimously to allow the fundraiser.