Staff Writer

Students at Pike County Elementary School more than met their goal.

The school’s assistant principal John Evers set a goal for students to raise $500 for the March of Dimes.

But, they said that’s not enough. We can do better than that.

So, they went to work asking family and friends for donations and the students raised close to $1,200 ­ $850 of that in one week.

Although they understood the money was going to help prevent birth defects, they had another incentive ­ throwing a pie in Evers’ face.

Brandy Smith, a third grade PCES student, raised $65 and second-grader George Green raised $60.

Those two who raised the most money ­ followed by the rest of the school ­ headed outside Friday afternoon to throw pies in Evers’ face.

Evers is proud of the students.

"They’ve done a great job," Evers said. "A lot of these kids don’t have a lot and it was really special they raised this much."

Just before the cream-filled pie crust hit his face, Evers told the students how proud he is of them and reminded them how much their money can help helpless babies.

Pike County’s WalkAmerica chairwoman Dianne Smith said having area students involved has been a great idea.

"The coin cards have been doing great," Smith said of the slotted cards students filled with quarters and dimes. "I think the kids have really enjoyed doing it."

She said the students have set some goals for their parents, teachers and other adults in the community.

"The adults should be inspired by what these kids have done," Smith said.

In addition to raising money for the March of Dimes, many students are planning to participate in the WalkAmerica being held the morning of Apr. 1 on the Troy State University campus.

"We’re looking for a big crowd at the walk," Smith said of the event that will begin at 9 a.m.

Check in for walkers will be at 8 a.m.