See how much money Malverne elementary students raised for the Mary Ruchalski Foundation

In recognition of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the Maurice W. Downing Primary School Student Council Delegates, led by advisors Ms. Coreia and Ms. Smyth, inspired their fellow students to take action and raise money for a local charity.

On Sept. 26, students and staff were asked to wear yellow to bring awareness and send the message that every child should have a BRIGHT future. In addition, and in the spirit of “children helping children,” the students asked for a $1 donation from their families to benefit the Mary Ruchalski Foundation, a local pediatric cancer research charity.

During a special meeting on that day, the first and second grade Student Council delegates were joined by Carol Ruchalski, Mary's mother.

Carol Ruchalski spoke to the students about her work on behalf of children and donated a book to their library entitled “Ordinary Mary’s,” a story of kindness, caring and compassion that will inspire all the students to do good deeds. Carol also gave the students yellow shoelaces and lanterns that they can use to illuminate the school in support of this cause.

At the end of the visit, the students, represented by second grade Student Council president Seraphina Chambliss, presented Ruchalski with their donation of $450 that was raised by the Downing school community.

The district is so proud of these amazing young students who are contributing positively to the community and setting an example for the rest of us on how to be good citizens.