Neighbor News
Student Principal Leads St. Augustine School Walkathon
Fourth Grader Daniel Romero Serves as "Principal for a Day" and kicks off Walkathon around Andover Common.
On Monday, June 6, more than 450 students, staff and volunteers from Saint Augustine School in Andover laced up their sneakers for the school's Annual Walkathon fundraiser. Leading events for the day was fourth grade student Daniel Romero, who earned the privilege of being "Principal for a Day." In this role, he worked alongside St. Augustine School Principal Paula O'Dea and Vice Principal Meghan Lovett to ensure the safety and proper execution of the walkathon in addition to all other school related matters for the day.
The Saint Augustine School Walkathon is an annual fundraiser that not only promotes good health, but provides an opportunity for the students to give back to the school that provides them with both a superior education and supportive community. The funds raised in past walks funded the creation and development of both the James D. Doherty Centennial Gymnasium as well as the newly installed St. Julie Billiart House preschool. St. Augustine School has, in the last year, evolved into a true academic campus serving grades nursery through 8.
With such rapid growth, additional funds are necessary to complete the campus expansion. Walkathon co-chairs Lisa Dello Russo and Angela Dulac have organized the event for more than four years in support of the school. Sponsors for the event include Leonard Orthodontics, Andover Pediatric Dentistry, Portsmouth Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, Dello Russo Family Funeral Home, Philip Ciampa Salon & Day Spa, Stop & Shop Andover, Biondo & Foley Dental Group, JB Pride Uniforms (formerly JB Edwards), Whole Foods, Andover Gulf, Celebration Kingdom and J.A.J. Tile Co., Inc.
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According to Principal for the Day Daniel Romero, "I chose to be principal of the school today because walkathon day is such a fun day." When asked if he intends to become an academic administrator one day, he responded, "No, I plan to become a doctor. But, I hope to one day send my own children to St. A's as I'm really happy that I go to school here."
