👟The St. Mary’s Jog-A-Thon🎽
Each year, St. Mary’s hosts our annual Jog-A-Thon. This year, we’re giving parents and families a greater reason to connect and run with our kids: Our goal is to raisexyz….
Why Jog?
Physical health benefits
Regular participation in school-based running or active programs is associated with improved fitness levels in children compared with peers who do not participate, including better aerobic fitness outcomes.
Physical activity helps build healthy bones and muscles, supports a healthy body weight, and reduces risk factors linked to chronic diseases.
Academic and cognitive benefits
Studies show that physical activity is linked to improved academic performance in topics like math and reading, enhanced concentration, better attention, and improved classroom behavior.
Short bouts of activity, like running or brisk walking, have been associated with better cognitive performance and readiness to learn.
Social-emotional and school culture benefits
Teachers and school staff report that increased opportunities for physical activity improve social-emotional outcomes (such as teamwork, mood, and behavior) and contribute to a more positive classroom culture.
Participation in organized physical events helps children develop confidence, persistence, and inclusive participation, even when events are non-competitive in nature.
Fundraising benefits
Jog-A-Thons continue to be frequently used as a fundraiser because they engage whole school communities and provide a way for families and sponsors to support school programs without relying solely on product sales or events. A survey of school principals found that most schools depend on fundraisers like Jog-A-Thons to supplement budget needs.
Can’t Run This Time? Donate!
The Details
8:00 am Volunteer Check In
Volunteers arrive one hour early to help set up the course, registration tables, water stations, music, and lap tracking areas. Safety briefings and role assignments are reviewed.
9:00 am Student Check In and Pep Rally
Students gather by class for check in, sponsor sheet collection, and event shirts distribution. The morning begins with prayer, announcements, stretching, and a high energy warm up led by staff.
10:30 am Course Walk Through
Teachers review track boundaries, lap counting procedures, hydration stations, and safety guidelines with students.
11:00 am Heat 1 Preschool through Grade 3
Younger students run or walk in a supportive and encouraging environment. Typical goal ranges from 10 to 20 laps depending on age and endurance. Volunteers track laps and cheer them on.
11:30 am Heat 2 Grades 4 through 6
Upper elementary students take to the course with a higher endurance expectation. Many complete 20 to 35 laps during their run window.
12:00 pm Heat 3 Grades 7 and 8
Middle school students close out the running portion of the day. With greater stamina and competitive spirit, many complete 30 to 50 laps depending on pacing and conditioning.
About the Course
The course is typically set up on the school field or blacktop in a clearly marked loop. A standard elementary Jog A Thon track is approximately one eighth to one quarter mile per lap. Clear signage, cones, and staff supervision ensure safety and smooth flow.
Hydration and Snacks
Water stations are available at multiple points along the course. Healthy snacks such as fruit, granola bars, and electrolyte drinks are provided after each heat. Shade tents and rest areas are set up for recovery.
1:00 pm Community Lunch and Celebration
After the final heat, families, students, and staff gather for lunch. This may include a simple catered meal, barbecue, or picnic style lunch. Music, raffle prizes, recognition awards, and class participation acknowledgments help close the event on a celebratory note.
Participation
Students run or walk for a designated time period rather than a fixed distance, encouraging personal goal setting rather than competition. Every child is celebrated for effort, perseverance, and sportsmanship.
Thank you for all of your effort!