The Oak Hills Elementary Rock-n-Jog was more than just a fundraiser as the event served as a lesson in team building, health, fitness and music.

The recent Jog-a-Thon, which was hosted by parents, students and community sponsors, stressed a love of music, healthy snacks, exercise and taking part in something special. The goal of $45,000 was overwhelmingly exceeded, climbing to nearly $58,000.

"While many schools sell wrapping paper and cookie dough, Oak Hills has adopted another method to raise funds, all the while encouraging students to exercise, eat right and appreciate music," said Principal Wayne Abruzzo. "And, the response has been tremendous."

The morning festivities started off with Olympic Gold Medalist in track and field, Inger Miller, leading students in stretching exercises and praising them, calling them all "gold medal winners."

Students, staff, teachers, Miller and PTA members all wore a sea of white T-shirts with the Rock-n-Jog logo emblem on the front and names and logos of sponsors on the back. Parents cheered as students took to the field to walk, jog and sprint.

The program motivated students to raise as much money as possible in order to eliminate the need for more fundraising throughout the year. Week after week, students were encouraged to bring in one dollar or more, to show 100 percent class participation.

Awards and incentives for participating in the Jog-a-Thon included a music concert for the students, classroom raffles, lunch with the teachers, an autographed Hannah Montana guitar, Sony Playstation 3 pack, iPod, CDs and gift certificates.

For more information on the Rock-n-Jog, visit the Web site at www.oakhillspta.org.