On the afternoon of March 16, middle school students in 5th through 8th grades at The Episcopal School of Dallas came to the gymnasium for the 4th annual Flying Ducky Derby Day to raise money for Episcopal Relief & Development – specifically to benefit the Health and Wellness Program in El Salvador.

The 8^th grade Service Team researched the various programs in the Episcopal Relief & Development Gifts for Life catalogue; in chapel, students watched a video about the work of Dr. Daniella Flamenco and her team in El Salvador who provides much needed medical and dental care as well as education on ways to stay healthy.  In keeping with the medical theme, the service team members wore hospital scrubs and played “medical” music (like, “Staying Alive”) to heighten the enthusiasm.

Students could purchase one duck for $2 or three for $5; the object was to launch the “ducky” either past the free-throw line on the gymnasium floor (winning a “free-dress” day) or into the circle in the center of the floor formed by CPR dummies (winning a “free-dress” day, special cookie and a souvenir duck), all prizes to be awarded on April 1, the Friday after students return from Spring Break.

Mrs. Christie Morrow is the advisor for the event.  Mr. Sean McConnell, the Senior Director of Engagement with Episcopal Relief & Development, also spoke with the students about the work in El Salvador.

All in all, a very successful fun and fund-raising event, with $1,535 raised for health and wellness.