Westford Academy students partook in community service during the annual Polar Plunge event on March 10, raising more than 7,000 dollars for the Special Olympics Massachusetts (SOMA) organization. Arranged by the WA Student Council (STUCO), the event encouraged students to plunge into freezing water for a good cause. The Polar Plunge has become a tradition at WA, drawing in participation from students who are a part of clubs, teams, and organizations, along with teachers who volunteer as well. This year, about 145 students participated in the plunge.
The Polar Plunge is part of a statewide initiative by SOMA that provides year-round athletic training, competitions, and games for individuals with disabilities. Each plunge event across the Commonwealth raises funds that support Special Olympic athletes with access to coaching, equipment, and community events at no cost.
According to STUCO member and junior Raina Chatterjee, this year’s total remains one of the highest amongst the schools participating in the plunge all throughout Massachusetts. Chatterjee, who helped organize and promote the event, highlighted how the fundraising connected to the school spirit and community.
“The Polar Plunge can definitely seem intimidating because of the cold,” Chatterjee said. “But when you see your classmates getting excited, it motivates you to do it too. It’s a great experience and all for a meaningful cause.”
This year, the Polar Plunge was held at WA in the teachers’ parking lot, where participants jumped into the mobile pool brought in by the Special Olympics staff. The weather was around 70 degrees during the plunge and many participants said that the warmer temperatures made the event more enjoyable.
“It was very cold but it was also very refreshing,” junior James O’Toole said. “The weather is really nice today and it felt great being here with everyone.”
Others who participated described the plunge as an exhilarating and adrenaline-filled experience.
“It was freezing, but a lot of fun,” sophomore Addison Hale said. “I would absolutely do it again because it is for a great cause.”
To add some fun to the challenge, students were encouraged to wear tropical or beach-themed outfits while plunging. Many came dressed in brightly colored shirts, sunglasses, and leis to contrast the freezing temperatures the Polar Plunge had to offer.
Building on to the spirit, the events set up ensured a safe and fun way to jump into the water. According to Chatterjee, with STUCO ensuring quick and safe dips even with 145 participants, the event ran smoothly.
“We had a great setup and a really efficient process for getting everyone in and out of the water safely,” Chatterjee said. “We’re really happy with how it turned out, and next year we hope to get even more students and staff to join in.”
As participants and organizers look forward to next year’s event, STUCO are aiming to break the fundraising record. Those interested in donating or joining next year’s plunge can visit the Westford Academy Polar Plunge fundraising page.
