Strides for Students Raises More Than $11,600 in Support of Success at School

Tuesday, Jun 16, 2026

Strides for Students - June 13, 2026

The inaugural Strides for Students event brought together families, staff, students, and community partners on Saturday, June 13, raising more than $11,600 for programs and initiatives that will contribute directly to learner success across Grand Erie. 

“We had beautiful weather to walk, run, roll or stroll, with every stride making a meaningful difference in ensuring learners have what they need to succeed at school,” said Lisa Munro, Associate Director of Curriculum and Student Achievement. "Thank you to everyone who participated, cheered from the sidelines, or made a donation toward this important cause."

The event welcomed participants of all ages and abilities, with competitive runners kicking off the morning with a five-kilometre run, followed by a go-at-your-own-pace walk on the Kiwanis Field track at Pauline Johnson Collegiate and Vocational School. Top runners included Julia Benson and Brett Benson, parents from Walsh Public School attending Strides with their daughters, students Hannah and Leah; Laura Perrin, vice-principal at Paris District High School; and coming in with the best time of the day was Annie Sheppard, a Grade 6 student at Jarvis Public School. The top fundraising team was Stride Sisters with $2,965 raised. 

Ava


The event began with a performance of O Canada by Ava Ro, a recent McKinnon Park Secondary School graduate and accomplished actor, singer, and voice artist. Mascots from Grand Erie secondary schools kept the event going with high-energy antics. Families enjoyed a variety of games and activities, with community partners providing engaging opportunities for participants throughout the day.

“This is just the first event in what will become a strong tradition of giving back in Grand Erie,” said JoAnna Roberto, Chief Executive Officer. "Fundraisers like Strides allow us to direct community support to where it can make the most impact for students across the region." 

The funds raised through the event will support programs and opportunities that help students thrive, both inside and outside the classroom, contributing to emergency needs and supporting programs in schools in the key areas of mental and physical health, equity, and technology. 

Strides for Students - June 13, 2026


The event's turnout and enthusiastic support demonstrates a shared commitment to student achievement and well-being. The support of presenting sponsor, For the Needy Not the Greedy, went a long way to making the event possible. With this year's total raised, Strides for Students has established a solid foundation for the annual community event. Its success was made possible through the support of participants, volunteers, donors, sponsors, and community partners who came together to invest in the success of Grand Erie students.

Team Awards

  • Over and Above Award: Stride Sisters
  • Small but Mighty Award: We Thought This Was a Staff Meeting
  • Student Voice Award: Walsh Whirlwinds
  • Best Team Theme: Sheppard Shufflers

More News

Grand Erie Musicians Earn National Recognition at MusicFest Canada
Tuesday, Jun 16, 2026
Strides for Students Raises More Than $11,600 in Support of Success at School
Tuesday, Jun 16, 2026
United Indigenous Student Council Celebrates a Year of Leadership, Culture and Connection
Monday, Jun 15, 2026