Bentheim Elementary students raised more than $19,000 for the Bentheim PTO during the 2026 Hawk Walk, setting a new student fundraising record. Local sponsors contributed approximately $8,500 more, bringing the event’s total support to roughly $27,500.

Josh Zoerhof, the annual volunteer DJ of the event, helped get the event moving with an enthusiastic “On your mark, get set, walk!” Students enjoyed the day alongside parent volunteers and a special visitor: the Hawkeye mascot.

Principal Jared Randall explained that the annual fundraiser supports the PTO’s work throughout the school year. Students ask grandparents, friends, and neighbors for donations that help fund assemblies, Donuts at Dawn with families, Fun Night, inflatables for the last-day carnival, and other school experiences.

“It basically funds everything our PTO does each year,” Randall said. “We’re so blessed with a great community.”

The celebration also included a memorable reward: turning Mr. Randall into a human sundae, which will take place during an upcoming school day.

Randall thanked the sponsors, families, and volunteers whose contributions made the event possible, emphasizing that the support extended beyond donations.

“It’s amazing the support of our community, both financially and in person,” he said. “It makes you feel happy to be a part of a community that supports their kids and their school.”