The recent earthquake in Haiti has brought an outpouring of support from around the world — and now Devils Lake's Central Middle School is joining the campaign.
Principal Josh Johnson said a raffle drawing will be held one week from today, with all proceeds to benefit the victims of the recent quake.
To show his support, Johnson has also offered a little incentive for the students and staff.
“If they raise $5,000 I've agreed to shave my head,” he said.
Up for grabs are a 32-inch flat screen television, donated by Wal-Mart, and a “Get-away Package” from the Spirit Lake Casino, including $10 for food, $10 in vouchers and a free night at the hotel.
The event is being organized by the Student Council and the CMS Parent Advisory Committee.
Student Council member Jordyn Buckmier, a seventh grader, said they are planning to work really hard to meet the goal.
“We want it really bad,” she said, “and not just for shaving his head.”
Fellow Student Council member Mariah Kowalski agreed. “It's a nice memory, when you see him with that buzz cut, you'll know you did good.”
Both girls said they have participated in fundraising efforts before, for athletic teams and Student Council, but this isn't quite the same.
“It's a different kind of happiness when you help people,” Kowalski said.
“If it happened to us, we'd want them to help,” added Buckmier.
Tickets are $5 each and can be purchased at the CMS office during school hours. Students will also be selling tickets at a booth outside of Wal-Mart on Saturday from 1-3 p.m.
The winners will be announced at a school assembly on Friday, Jan. 22, beginning at 8:45 a.m. in the gymnasium. If the required money is raised, Johnson's head will be shaved at that time. The assembly is open to the public.
