Haigh Fifth-Graders Honored for Dearborn Animal Shelter Fundraising

Some very lucky animals are barking and meowing their thank yous to this winter.

The school's fifth-grade students raised $440 for the through the Beggin' for Bones competition. They were recognized for their efforts on Wednesday afternoon with a visit from shelter representatives–including Gladys, a 10-year-old black labrador.

The kids–90 in all–came together from classes taught by teachers Paula Nantau, Lori Bundas and Mary Kowalski, plus resource room teacher Rebecca Batjjes. They collected donations from students, staff and parents in canisters to go to support the shelter.

The school has been participating in the competition for years, but this is the first year they've won–beating out several groups, including last year's winners from the National Honor Society. Beggin' for Bones ran through the month of October. However, Principal Patricia Buoy said that the students started raising funds as soon as the school year started.

"They made a huge push for it," she said. "It was a really big deal."

Students were able to ask questions about animals, learn about what the shelter does and spend time with Gladys during the Wednesday visit.

"Gladys is one of the animals that benefits from what you did," Nantau told the students. "The Dearborn Animal Shelter is part of our community."