On the days leading up to Thanksgiving, the students and staff from Freeport Public Schools’ Archer Street and Bayview Avenue elementary schools spent their time making a difference through their annual Turkey Trots. This year, the schools raised funds for the American Red Cross and the Make-a-Wish Foundation.

At Bayview Elementary on Nov. 25, students and staff gathered outside to trot around the school building in celebration of their fundraising efforts. With music playing and special visitors cheering them on, Principal Kelly Fairclough and Assistant Principal Stephanie Berg expressed their pride in the students for raising nearly $1,700 for the Make-a-Wish Foundation.

On Nov. 26, the rain could not dampen the excitement of the annual Archer Street Turkey Trot. With students and staff wearing festive holiday hats, carrying Thanksgiving-themed flags and posters, they paraded through the hallways, showing the true meaning of the holiday. Their efforts resulted in an impressive $2,400 donation to the American Red Cross.

Through their dedication and generosity, the Archer and Bayview’s students and staff are making a difference in their community this Thanksgiving season.