Dallas International School (DIS) instills the importance of social responsibility in
students at a very young age. On March 25, students from first through fourth grade
participated in an on-campus race to raise funds for Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for
Kids, one of the country’s top pediatric centers in treating orthopedic conditions.
The annual Rite Race kicked off in 2004, and sponsors pledged a dollar amount
for each lap completed, or even offered a lump sum for the entire race. This year, Lower
School students raised $6,000, bringing the total amount donated to the hospital in the
last 12 years to $104,300.
Severine Le Duff, a physical education teacher at DIS, coordinated this year’s
event. In preparing her students for the race, she made sure to express the value of
good will.
“I wanted my students to understand that when running for a cause… one should
give it their all and then some,” Le Duff said.
The enthusiasm for philanthropic efforts was certainly evident among the
students.
“I was excited to do as many laps as I could so that I could donate the money,”
said Olivia Knutson, a second grade student who completed seven full laps around the
Lower School campus.
While the Rite Race serves as a fundraiser, Le Duff wanted her students to
“not only raise money, but to cherish the thrill of running, something the children at
Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Kids are not able to experience.”
When DIS students visited the hospital on April 27,
they viewed an introductory video of how customized prosthetic limbs are produced.
Knutson was particularly intrigued with how hospital staff members were able to
accommodate the requests of one female patient.
“They put a pretend foot on her so that she can wear high heels!” she marveled.
Students were even able to touch old prosthetics on this field trip, allowing them
to connect with the cause they were supporting in a very hands-on way.
Stephanie Brigger, vice president for development at the hospital, praised the
selflessness of the DIS students.
“We’re exceptionally honored that your students and staff have elected to support
us for the past 12 years through the school’s annual Rite Race,” Brigger wrote. “We love
being a part of the post-event celebratory field trip here at the hospital and showing your
young philanthropists the impact of their community service efforts. At TSRHC, we’re
giving children back childhood, and the children of the Dallas International School have
truly helped make that possible!"
DIS students are looking forward to participating in next year’s Rite Race and
making a difference in the lives of their peers right here in the community.