On a chilly November day, 328 students voluntarily jumped into ice cold water as a part of the annual Cool School Mobile Polar Plunge. The Polar Plunge is a fundraising event for Special Olympics Minnesota that aims to give people with intellectual and physical disabilities the instruction and encouragement to participate in sports. Funds raised help to provide training and services to Special Olympic athletes across the state.
Between Fridley Middle School, Fridley High School and VISTA Education Center students, a total of $6,932 was raised. A portion of that money ($2,426) will be used at Fridley Middle School to support inclusive programming and additionally will support PBIS efforts throughout the school.
“This is the highest number of registered staff and students we've ever had as well as the most money we have raised in our four years of doing the mobile plunge here at the middle school,” said Chelsea Clark, FMS Special Education Teacher/ASD Specialist and Special Olympics of MN Liaison. “We surpassed our fundraising goal by almost $1000...so amazing!”