Beards with Heart contest raises funds for Pioneer's Coats for Kids

Congratulations to Hollis Erikson for winning the Pioneer Middle School “Beards with Heart” contest. Erikson is a 6th grade Social Studies/ Language Arts teacher. The fundraiser raised nearly $1000 for the school’s Coats for Kids program.

Staff members David Blocklinger, Dan Calzaretta, John Carter, Hollis Erikson, Marty Fortney, and Jack Mehn participated in the contest. These staff members began growing their beards out several weeks ago to support this cause.

“I am blown away by the generosity of our staff, students and community,” said Britt Adkins, who helped organize the event.

“The recent cold snap was a good reminder of the importance of a warm coat. Maybe this event, and possible future ones, will raise awareness that families can access warm coats right here at their school.”