Blanchard principal Michael Votto is a man of his word, even if it means sleeping on the school roof on a night that hovered near freezing.
Earlier this year, Principal Votto made a challenge to the Blanchard Parents, Teachers and Friends (PTF) group. If they raised $25,000 during their annual Fun Run, he would pitch a tent and spend the night on the roof. A few years ago a previous principal floated the tent-on-the-roof idea, and Principal Votto decided to offer the same promise.
Well, this time Blanchard PTF met the goal and then some. Thanks to 554 donations for the Fun Run, they raised a record $26,160.
Principal Votto set up the makeshift camp Thursday night, November 13. Thanks to scattered showers in the afternoon, the roof’s surface was not only cold, it was wet. He started the night by hosting an all-school Zoom where he showed off his set up and read to the kids.
“The response from students and staff had been unbelievable,” Votto said the morning after his elevated sleep. “Students are excited to discuss all the things that went into last night and staff have been supportive as they are each and everyday at work here.”
No surprise, Votto said he did not get a good night’s sleep, but he said he made it through and is better for it. He added that he heard a lot of nature from the rooftop.
Principal Votto’s challenge was unusual enough to attract the attention of the Channel 5 News team. You can catch the whole story on YouTube at Mass. principal camps out on school rooftop, fulfilling promise to students.
The money will be used for free activities for the students. The Blanchard Enrichment Program brings things like scientists, animal visits, authors, and additional literature to the school. Every dollar directly impacts a Blanchard student.
Lori Cooney is an Acton resident and serves on several area boards and committees.
