Sprague students raise money to fight diabetes

Students at Sprague School in Lincolnshire trekked to a nearby forest preserve - and back to school again - on Friday for charity.

Accompanied by teachers and parents, about 550 students strolled to the Ryerson Woods Forest Preserve to raise money for the American Diabetes Association. Dubbed the "School Walk for Diabetes," the event has become an annual tradition at Sprague, which serves pre-kindergarteners through second-graders.

"By participating in the school walk, our students learn about the diabetes epidemic and choices they can make to help prevent it," Principal Ann Hofmeier said. "Students are also learning about the importance of helping others in need whose lives are affected by diabetes."

More than $26,500 has been raised for the cause so far, Lincolnshire-Riverwoods School District 103 spokeswoman Kim Sylvan said. That tops last year's total, which was $23,720.