What a wildly impactful fundraiser. Students sold 2,766 rubber ducks, and as you can see from the pictures, that’s a LOT OF DUCKS! Through their efforts, this year’s Duck Race raised more money than ever before: over $54,000 for financial assistance.

It was amazing to watch these children really get out into their community to raise funds for this cause- they made videos, texted their parents’ friends, talked to visitors at the Daffodil Festival, and walked around their neighborhoods. A sincere, heartfelt thank you to all the students who sold ducks, to race day volunteers, to the local businesses who donated prizes (Young’s Bicycle Shop really outdid themselves- enjoy that Cannondale, Liepa, you earned it!), and to each and every person who bought ducks. 

We’re asked a lot about why this fundraiser is so fun and so successful, and my quick answer is that it’s a grassroots effort by students, for students. By actively participating in financial assistance fundraising initiatives, students contribute directly to their peers. 

 

The only drawback is the panic of the volunteers as we try to collect thousands of ducks before they make it to the harbor. The current in the creek was going a little faster, and the ducks dispersed a bit wider, than I expected. Next year, a bigger net for even more ducks! 

Join us on Friday, June 9, from 5-7pm to bid a final farewell to Todd. The farewell party will be an opportunity for us to come together as a community, express our heartfelt thanks, and wish Todd well. We'll have some drinks and light bites, and cake! This event is free and open to all 21+ members of the extended Nantucket New School community. Click here to RSVP.