The PTA at Oakstead Elementary School, at 19925 Lake Patience Road in Land O’ Lakes, has an unusual way to raise money for the school. It hosts the Otter Olympics. The fundraiser obstacle course took place on Nov. 9.
The PTA organized the Olympics-themed fundraiser, which was made possible through the donations of more than 30 local businesses from Lutz and Land O’ Lakes. Jana Cash, PTA sponsorship chair, said she’s grateful for the generosity of the local business community. “We couldn’t have done this without them,” she said.
She also praised Oakstead’s students whose fundraising efforts brought in $20,000 in the first week of the drive.
PTA president Andrea Holley said nearly every dollar raised by students will go back to the school. The goal is to purchase iPads and other technology for classroom use. All of the school’s kindergarten through fifth grade students took part in the day’s events, whether they were able to collect pledges or not. The sponsors also provided a free T-shirt and bottle of water for each student. Oakstead Principal Tamera Kimpland called the event a great partnership between parents, and she said it’s great to see the school and the community come together.
