KIPP students donate to Jared Raymond fundraiser

LYNN – KIPP Academy Lynn students turned a current events lesson into a charitable effort this month, raising $560 at the second annual Jared Raymond Memorial 5K Road Race Sept. 20 in Swampscott.While many students continue to learn about wars of the past, KIPP teachers focused a lesson on the present conflict in Iraq, inspiring students to want to help soldiers and their families.KIPP Dean of Students Nat Jones motivated the students through his current events lessons regarding the Iraq War, and inspired the students to help by participating in the fundraising road race.Jones, along with fellow Lynn resident and teacher Breanndon O’Huiginn helped train 28 KIPP students for the race while some 200 of their classmates turned out to cheer on the group while they completed the race.All of the KIPP students completed the race, some quicker than others, and staff members say they are both impressed and proud of the students’ desire to help soldiers both at home and abroad.”My favorite moment of the day was when five of the kids decided to finish the last mile of the race holding hands,” said Jones. “They did it so they wouldn’t leave anyone behind.”