Lowell High School kicked off the holidays with a fun and competitive school-wide challenge to raise money for Saint Edward Church. Designed to support families and children during the holiday season, the fundraiser quickly became one of the most spirited events of the year. The juniors took an early lead with the most pennies and the fewest negative points, ultimately winning the competition. NHS President Cass Hejnowski and Vice President Sophia Vercruysse, along with several other club members, organized the fundraiser by making posters, monitoring donation buckets at lunch, and helping make every executive decision along the way. Their teamwork has helped the event grow into something much larger than a simple coin drive.

The fundraiser’s main goal is to raise $5,000 to support local families and purchase Christmas gifts for children in the community. To reach that goal, the NHS team plans to expand the project by hosting a “Bleacher Blitz” at upcoming basketball games. During these events, students, parents, and community members will be able to donate directly in the stands, turning school spirit into real-world impact. In a fun twist, the teacher representing the losing class will face the consequence of “walking the plank,” also known as jumping into a pool.

In the end, the juniors placed first and the sophomores finished last. The juniors now get to vote for a sophomore faculty member to walk off the diving board fully clothed. We will know by early next week whether Mr. Govert, Mr. Martinez, Ms. Rousseau, or Mrs. Stoit will be the LHS employee “taking one for their team.”

Lowell High School has partnered with St. Edward Church on the Angel Tree project since 2022. In that time, thousands of dollars have been raised, and LHS students have played a pivotal role in providing many local children with a wonderful Christmas.