UPPER CANADA DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
Popping for a Purpose: UCDSB Students Blow Bubbles to Give Back

Students at Maynard Public School, Nationview Public School, South Branch Elementary School, and Wellington Elementary School are making a meaningful impact on children and families through a creative fundraising initiative.

In honour of International Bubble Gum Day on February 7, students from the four schools joined in the fun by blowing bubbles to support the Upper Canada District School Board's (UCDSB) Champions for Kids (C4K) Foundation, collectively raising over $1300 towards the cause.

Champions for Kids strives to create equal opportunities for UCDSB students and their families by supporting children in accessing summer camps, sports, dance lessons, and other enriching activities beyond the classroom. The foundation also assists families facing unexpected expenses or needing extra support, providing essentials such as eyeglasses, and warm winter clothing.

Each school put their own spin on the fundraiser in hopes of raising money, and spirits, by chewing their way to victory in friendly competitions to see who in the school could blow the biggest gum bubble.

At Maynard Public School, excitement had been building for weeks, with flyers posted around the school. Principal Jennifer Moore kicked off the day by challenging a staff member to a "bubble-off" during the morning announcements. Cheers could be heard through the school as the two went head-to-head in an epic, bubble bout. Motivated by the contest, students could purchase a piece of gum for a dollar from the school's leadership team and compete for a chance to take on a staff member in the gym at the end of the day.

Moore appreciates the positive impacts of C4K funds, seeing firsthand how it can benefit students and the school. "We decided to raise some funds to give back to Champions for Kids because we have several students who access the funds throughout the school year. We had lots of fun and many laughs that day, all while supporting a great cause."

The event at South Branch ES was organized by Mrs. Matheson's Power Up Program (PUP) and included various in-class challenges. All students received a piece of bubble gum, and those that brought in a donation earned a special "License to Blow" that allowed them to compete for a chance to move on to the big school-wide bubble blowing contest in the afternoon.

"Supporting causes like C4K is an important part of our school culture," said South Branch ES Principal Tabitha Valliant. "This event not only encouraged students to give back but also connected with our ongoing commitment to positive school spirit and student engagement. It was fantastic to see the excitement and teamwork as students cheered each other on!"

On top of the big fundraiser, Nationview PS added in some additional learning to the day. Students were wondering where gum comes from, so they took a virtual tour of a gum factory and discovered the ins and outs of making the sticky treat.

"I LOVE Bubble Gum Day," said Nationview PS Principal Leann Bruley. "Supporting each other is who we are and an important lesson for our students. Giving back doesn't have to be hard; it can be as easy as making a small donation a having a lot of fun chewing bubble gum."

Not to be outdone, Wellington ES students kicked off the big day with a video all about gum chewing safety and tips on how to blow that perfect bubble.

Wellington ES Principal Tanya Preston was glad that such a fun activity could help spread the word about C4K. "We use Bubble Gum Day as a fun way to raise awareness for our C4K charity for both our students and parents. It is a small way everyone can be proud and participate in the great work C4K does."  

"We are incredibly grateful when our schools organize events like this," said C4K President Laura Oliver. "Not only do they provide a fun and engaging experience for students, but they also help raise awareness of the foundation. Best of all, every donation goes directly toward supporting our students. On behalf of the foundation and the children benefiting from these funds, thank you!"