Pearl River Central Upper Elementary (PRCUE) set a state fundraising record in American Lung Association® of Mississippi’s (ALAM) SuperKids® tobacco education program this past school year. Students raised $18,037.98 that will support lung health in Mississippi through research, advocacy, direct aid and education. This is the largest amount raised by an upper or lower elementary school in the 30 year history of the SuperKids® program.

This was PRCUE’s first year to participate in the program. They, along with other participating schools in the most southern counties of the state (Pearl River, Stone and Harrison Counties), together raised over $51,000, almost a quarter of the total funds generated from the 2005-2006 SuperKids@ program.

“It is quite impressive that these students were able to raise such a large amount of money, especially after what the community has been through post Hurricane Katrina, said Rep. Mark Formby. “They are setting a great example for other Mississippi students.”

SuperKids® includes a tobacco education talk where students were given the opportunity to collect donations to support lung health in Mississippi. Incentive prizes are awarded to those students raising at least $20. The students are then rewarded for their fundraising efforts with a fun field day reinforcing that physical fitness keeps lungs healthy. “Through SuperKids®, students learn the importance of taking care of their lungs and supporting projects that help people in their community,” said Amy Ellis, ALAM’s SuperKids coordinator. “Donations raised through SuperKids® will help to continue programs like Camp Wheez-A way, a summer camp for children with moderate to severe asthma.”

Hannah Ingram collected the most money overall in PRCUE and was recognized as the “Top SuperKid” for the school. She was awarded with the grand prize, a scooter and helmet, by ALAM in appreciation of her efforts. ALAM thanks these hard-working students and the community for supporting their efforts. If your school is interested in participating in the 2006-2007 SuperKids® program, contact ALAM by phone at 1-800-586-4872, or email aellis@alams.org.