June 19, 2008

Bret Harte students celebrate the end of school with the Broncothon

There were lots of activities for Bret Harte students at the 10th annual Broncothon. This rock climbing wall sure beats sitting in a stuffy classroom! Photos by Bonnie George

The last day of school was nothing but fun at the 10th annual Broncothon Blast at Bret Harte Middle School.

The annual Broncothon was held on June 12, and turned the sports field into a maze with a sticky wall, obstacle course, bungee run and a giant slide. Other fun activities included the climbing wall challenge and soccer shootout.

At least 800 students enjoyed carnival games of chance in the quad as well as the opportunity to Splash Down their favorite teacher, watch a movie, or participate in volleyball and swimming.

Although classes were held in the morning, they were limited to 15 minutes each allowing the Broncothon to begin in earnest at 10:30 a.m. In addition to being fun for the students, the Broncothon is Bret Harte’s only school-wide fundraiser that supports the many sports programs and special interest clubs.

The school took in $25,000; at press time the actual net figure was not yet known.

While playing the carnival games, the students earned tickets that were redeemed for prizes including noisemakers sticks, sports balls, stuffed animals and even a chance for a pound of See’s candy donated by the company.

During the pledge week, students were entered into raffles depending on their level of participation. Donations were received from: Burger King, Lovely Nails, Bakers Square, Mel Cotton’s, Stepping Stone Salon, Optimum Results and Country Inn.

Bret Harte students enjoyed playing on the inflatable slide.

Grand prize winners include Emma Barto who won a four-day, three-night stay in Cabo San Lucas; Jake Faulther who took home four box seat tickets and free parking to a Giants’ game; and Jake Wingo, Truman Ho, Lauren Cymrot, Simone George and Brandon Farnia, who each took home Microsoft Home & Student 2007.

Parent Sal Guido and Bonnie George, Design Events coordinated the event, which also included many parents who volunteered their time to run the games and oversee the activities, along with the teachers at Bret Harte.

All in all, the school year ended with a blast – a true Broncothon Blast.