Sharon Sumner's third-grade class had the most students participate in St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital's Math-A-Thon. They also raised the most money.

June 12, 2008 - Boght Hills students recently discovered that math problems can add up to support for a good cause.

Nearly 120 students participated in St. Jude’s Math-A-Thon, a fun and educational fundraising program to benefit St. Jude's Children’s Research Hospital—one of the largest childhood cancer research centers in the world.

“By participating in Math-A-Thon, you are as important as any doctor or researcher because you raise the money that helps them do their work,” according to a statement on the St. Jude’s Math-A-Thon Web site. “Your participation in Math-A-Thon makes it possible for St. Jude’s to treat patients regardless of a family’s ability to pay.”

Students were inspired by celebrities, such as Miley Cyrus and Chris Brown, to solve a variety of math problems using cartoon work books, CDs or the Math-A-Thon Web site. For each problem solved, students collected donations previously pledged by family members and friends.

“This is an amazing way for student’s to review math skills, exercise problem solving and improve critical thinking—all while learning about social awareness and volunteerism,” said Boght Hills Principal Kim Greiner. “Bravo, Boght Hills students, for a job well done!”

Teachers and staff cheered the students on and even sponsored a dress-down day to help raise additional funds. Ultimately, the school raised more than $6,800 to help patients battling cancer and other catastrophic diseases.

This may have been the school’s first year participating in the program, but it certainly won't be the last.