For the first time ever, GHS introduces a hopefully new long lasting tradition called the Polar Plunge. This is a significant fundraiser where proceeds go to Special Olympic events and provides life-changing opportunities for these athletes. This includes year-round training and competition, as well as leadership, personal development, and health education opportunities. On March 20th, GHS will be hosting their own Polar Plunge in support of these athletes where students will get the opportunity to plunge into a large icy-water filled pool if they raise $100. Raising the stakes, if students raise an additional $100, they can choose to plunge another student or staff member at GHS to be a plunger.
GHS as a whole was challenged in raising $3,000 in contribution to the organization and we have already gone beyond this limit with the event still being a week out. Catlin Kennedy ‘27 didn’t shy away from this challenge being the highest student contributor so far with having $425 raised. Kennedy will be able to plunge herself at the event as well as three other people to her choosing. “I’m really happy and excited about being a plunger myself,” Kennedy shared, “I’m still undecided about who I’m going to select but I have a few ideas.” Going even further, Kennedy plans to plunge into the pool by doing a backflip making the event all that more enticing.
Freshman Ella Ottenhausen has also risen to the occasion raising $150 and hopefully making her way to $200 before the day of the event. “I think this is a great way to spread awareness and support to the Special Olympics all while being able to have a fun time while doing it,” said Ottenhasuen. This displays the message of giving back and how this fundraiser instills the importance of this into students.
A long list of teachers all committed to being potential nominated plungers, including one of our newest staff members, Mr. Vazquez. Being quick to sign up, Vazquez didn’t bow down from being a potential plunger. “I signed up for the Polar Plunge because I wanted to support a great cause. It’s a unique experience that brings people together, and I thought it would be a lot of fun. If I got chosen, I think I’d feel a mix of excitement and nervousness—excited for the experience but also a little anxious about the cold! But overall, I’d be proud to take part in it.” Having support from the staff encourages students to participate and get involved in the event to make it as thrilling as possible.
Principal Mrs. Hawkins has been working closely with the organization as well as her Student Advisory Council to help make the event come to life. “We hope that without thorough and extensive planning, this event will be a spectacular success and recurring tradition for GHS,” Hawkins shared.
