Teachers in School District 43 are joining forces with KidSport Tri-Cities to ensure students in local schools can participate in sports regardless of their family income.
On May 4, the first annual School District 43 Golf Tournament will be held at Westwood Plateau Golf and Country Club in Coquitlam to support the organization, which covers the cost of registration fees for children's sports.
"We think [KidSport] is a worthy cause and, as a district, we want to get behind it," said CABE principal Paul McNaughton, who said research shows sports is good for kids' mental health and academics, and keeps them in school.
Sharon McKay, a CABE teacher and an athlete, came up with the idea of the district supporting KidSport last fall and it wasn't long before her colleagues at the Coquitlam Teachers' Association and CUPE Local 561, as well as retired principals and teachers, jumped on board. They all wanted to help because all of the money it raises - about $130,000 annually - is distributed to SD43 kids who play sports on local teams.
"The best way we can support kids is through KidSport," said Jeff Stromgren, the district's community connections/healthy living co-ordinator. "It's a shortcut to kids who really need it."
Chris Wilson, a Coquitlam city councillor who is also the Tri-Cities KidSport executive director, said he is impressed with the enthusiasm of teachers.
Dean Whitson, a Terry Fox teacher who is helping organize the event, said registration quickly filled up but donations are needed to provide prizes for the silent auction. Sponsorships are also available for cash contributions. For more information, email [email protected], [email protected] or [email protected]. Tax receipts are available.
