Scores of students and families packed the Southold elementary school gym this morning as they readied for the 6th annual Southold Athletic Association 5K race.
The event is a favorite for all involved, and benefits all students.
“This creates an opportunity for kids to be more active,” said Southold coach and physical education teacher Peter Salerno.
The race raises funds to help expand kids’ physical horizons; proceeds in past years have helped to build an indoor recess room, a playground, an outdoor ampitheater and climbing equipment, said Salerno.
Funds are also used for fun field days, which include blow-up obstacle courses and other healthy activities for students.
The morning started solemnly, after last night’s terrorist attacks in Paris. Neighbors and parents, students and teachers embraced quietly, and Salerno asked all in attendance to participate in a moment of silence. The room was totally silent as the crowd saluted the flag and two students sang a heartfelt rendition of the National Anthem.
Students also collected canned goods to donate to the needy.
Southold Schools Superintendent David Gamberg took a moment to ask participants to take one of the tours of the campus he’s planned in advance of the December $9.8 million bond vote; the first tour kicks off tomorrow at 3 p.m.
