Opstad students play Monopoly walkathon, principal goes to 'jail'

Opstad Elementary School principal John Jester spent part of the school’s walk-athon going directly to jail. The Monopoly-themed event raised money a variety of ways, including “bail money” for Jester and others who were sent to jail throughout the day. - Courtesy photo
Courtesy photo
Opstad Elementary School principal John Jester spent part of the school’s walk-athon going directly to jail. The Monopoly-themed event raised money a variety of ways, including “bail money” for Jester and others who were sent to jail throughout the day.

November 8, 2011 · 3:06 PM

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The Opstad Elementary “Monopoly” walk-athon was Thursday, Sept. 29, under blue skies.

Students walked for two hours, some completing more than 60 laps. The theme of the day was Monopoly, chosen last May by students. Before school started, the hallways were transformed into a giant Monopoly board while dice and dollar signs hung from the ceiling. A giant jail was built. Classes competed to raise the most money, and the class that earned the most in each grade level got to throw a staff member of their choice into the jail during lunch.

King County Sheriff's Deputy Paul Eng helped start the walk-athon, with lights and sirens, and then the "arrest" of Principal John Jester. Students and staff could bail out anyone who was in jail, or pay to have someone else put in the jail. This portion of the event raised more than $500.

The overall fundraising goal was $65,000, and so far, $50,000 has been pledged. All of the money raised goes back to the students at Opstad by way of the Science Toy Workshop, Pioneer Day, Interactive History, Camp Waskowitz, Camp Seymour, additional Instructional Aide Time, MSP Test Prep Books, Art Enrichment, Educational Assemblies, Additional Library Resources, Music Department, PE Department, Reading and Math Support, Scholarships, Teacher Grants, Investment in New Programs, Family Activities and Field Day.

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