MKA Student Faculty Basketball Fundraiser Scores Again
Friday, February 1, 2013, faculty, students, families and members of the community gathered at MKA’s Middle School for the Annual Student Faculty Basketball Fundraiser. Run by the MS Student Government, students selected two great charities, the Sandy New Jersey Relief Fund and the Montclair Human Needs Food Pantry, to focus their fundraising, including T-shirt sales, a coin collection and food sales prior to the game. Collectively, their efforts raised over $11,000.
Laura Lemaire, one of the event organizers, could not have been more pleased with the outcome. “Thank you to each and every one of you. Our Middle School is a pretty special place. I feel so lucky to be part of a group of faculty and staff that is so willing to help out in whatever why he or she can. Thank you to the players. You play with your hearts and souls. Thank you to all the chaperones - you keep the kids safe and make this an orderly fun night for everyone. Thank you to everyone who helped in their own way - music, MC, entertainment, coin collecting, organizing - each thing that you did made this a great night for everyone. I love this school. You're the BEST.” Co-organizer, CherylAnne Amendola, echoed Laura’s sentiments: “Last night (and every day), I feel privileged to work with such caring, committed colleagues. Thanks for everything you do!”
Dr. Randy Kleinman, Head of Middle School, was equally moved with the outpouring of support and commitment displayed by the faculty, students and families, whose continued dedication exemplifies MKA’s Knowledge, Vision and Integrity. “I want to thank everyone who was involved in any way with Friday's Basketball Fundraiser. The contributions that you all make to organizing and executing a huge event like this are extraordinary. The money raised for charity and the joy that the students and families experience playing and participating as fans is our reward for all of that work. My personal reward is being part of this great community.” In particular, Dr. Kleinman, made a special note to the players: “Thank you for a great night, and to all the players for a great game highlighted by the most exciting final 80 seconds of basketball I've experienced in a long time.”
Although the scoreboard tallied the winning team, 40 Students - 39 Faculty, it was an evening where all participants were winners, both on and off the court. More amazing photographs to follow soon!