Teachers kiss donkey in fund raising program

Story and photos by Diana Zimmerman

Seventh grade students recently raised more than $400 in a popular Kiss the Donkey contest at J.A. Wendt Elementary and John C. Thomas Middle School.

Last week, the winners-or losers-depending on perspective, got a chance to plant his or her lips on a donkey in front of a roaring crowd of young students.

A few teachers and students were chosen as targets for the fund raising. If they agreed to go along, a jar with their name on it was placed in the office. The person whose jar had the most money at the end of the fundraising period would win-or lose-an opportunity for a smooch.

Teacher Tina Merz allowed the seventh grade students to choose what they would do with their elective period this fall, and they decided to focus on community activity, specifically fundraising. This event was just one of a few they have planned.

On Wednesday, students at the elementary and middle schools gathered in the John C. Thomas gym to watch the fun. It was the last day before Thanksgiving break and the students were in a good mood. A happy noise filled the gym, as students cheered and stomped their feet in a rolling rhythm.

"Garrett! Garrett! Garrett!" they yelled.

The newest teacher at the middle school, Ryan Garrett, had won the contest. Students and staff raised $101 to see him kiss a donkey. He wandered out to the middle of the gym, walking around the donkey a couple times, motioning as if he were uncertain which end he should buss, and then knelt before the patient creature and gently gave her a kiss.

The crowd roared.

The money raised by the seventh grade class purchased several Christmas dinners for a local food bank.