Two years ago Huntington Elementary staff planned Read and Run to Disney where students run laps or read for credit toward a trip to Disneyland. The school partnered with local businesses Ash Grove Cement, Carefree Travel and Disneyland to rally student and parent support. The year-end winner, based on points and a final drawing of the top achievers, won a trip to Disneyland. The run is charted on a large map in the hall and students select the highway they intend to follow. They write to chambers of commerce along the course and get information and community activities.
Students enter their names for a drawing for a two-day trip to Disneyland.
Top runners and readers are entered and one student is chosen and joined by their parents, teacher and principal for the trip. Carefree Travel made travel arrangements and Ashgrove Cement helped with lodging. Throughout the year, however, drawings are held and other prizes are given each month for the top three performers in reading and running. All elementary students participated. The running is to not only increase physical fitness but improve playground behavior.