Economic times may be tough, but the big hearts of Fritsch Elementary students can be seen in their efforts to raise money for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
In a "change challenge," students brought in coins that added up to $2,333.26.
The organizer, 9-year-old John Rowe, wanted to increase diabetes awareness. A Type 1 diabetic, John receives more than 1,825 shots and 1,460 finger pricks a year.
The winning class was Mrs. Wertz's first graders, who raised an amazing $24.71 per student. Second place was Mrs. Padere's third grade, which raised an average of $14.70 per student.
Along with raising money, the students were educated on issues such as the warning signs of diabetes, the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, and the importance of healthy eating and regular exercise.
The winning classroom was treated to a pizza party and second place class received an ice cream party.
Northern Nevada Credit Union provided the use of their change counting machine.