The students, faculty, and staff at East Hills Elementary School raised an amazing $9,002 this year for Red Nose Day!

Celebrated nationwide on Thursday, May 26, Red Nose Day is an annual fundraising campaign to end the cycle of child poverty and ensure a healthy future for all children.

East Hills participated in various fundraising efforts throughout the month of May, including a pretzel sale and a poster contest. Many children fundraised on their own to help the school reach its goal by selling bracelets, hosting bake sales, and setting up lemonade stands.

“Teacher Jodi Zambell turns her classroom into Red Nose Day headquarters for the entire month of May,” said principal Sherry Ma. “She’s earned the nickname ‘Ms. Red Nose Day’ and keeps the children motivated with contests and craft nights. This year, in coordination with art teacher Maria Favara, the children participated in a fun evening of Origami making.”

On the official day, everyone wore red clothing and was given red noses to wear. Crazy hair was encouraged. All the students had fun posing for silly pictures wearing the iconic Red Nose. The entire second grade paraded in the back of the building, dancing and singing Red Nose Day songs.

East Hills has been fundraising for Red Nose day since it started in the United States in 2015. To date, the school has raised over $40,000 to help end child poverty around the world. Last year, the nonprofit recognized East Hills as a school of giving and gifted them with a Red Nose Day Bench, currently installed in front of the building.

“I started Red Nose Day at East Hills because it was all about being happy and teaching compassion for others,” said Zambell. “I just love seeing the smiles on the kids’ faces. They get to help millions of children around the world and have fun doing it! And I feel so fortunate to have the support of my colleagues and administration, who do so much to help me host this wonderful event every year.”