SE Valley Times

Sonoma Ranch Elementary School held its third annual Turkey Trot on November 21st, inviting students and parents for a day focused on fun and fitness. The event was designed to promote physical activity and showcased the district's expanding running programs.

The Turkey Trot is an inclusive event where students of all abilities can participate. Participants followed Mrs. Luci, the school's turkey mascot, around the campus on a course approximately one mile long. After completing the run, students were treated to an ice pop and had the option to play or continue running.

“These types of events are always fun,” stated Betsy Marlinga, a coach at Sonoma Ranch. “It gives students a reason to exercise, be with their friends, and it offers them a glimpse into programs like our school and district Run Clubs."

Sonoma Ranch’s Turkey Trot is part of Gilbert Public Schools' (GPS) growing emphasis on running. Currently, 24 GPS elementary schools participate in a District Run Club, while all 26 have individual run clubs. Initially started by teachers and parents across the district, this program has evolved into a comprehensive initiative promoting exercise and team-building skills.

“The District Run Club has grown exponentially and continues to grow—we even had to separate it into two regions,” noted Cherie Naumann, Run Club Coach at Carol Rae Ranch Elementary and GPS Physical Education Department Chair.

The club now includes nearly 1,200 student participants divided into East and West regions. Monthly meets are held at different Junior High Schools within the district, awarding medals to top finishers in each grade level for both boys and girls.

Organizing such programs requires many dedicated individuals including coaches, teachers, parents, and volunteers who make events like the Turkey Trot possible. Gilbert Public Schools expresses gratitude for their contributions.