Twain Middle School to Start Running Program

Since the Sandy Hook shootings in Newtown, Conn., in December, multiple runners nationwide have dedicated their participation in different marathons to the 26 lives lost in the small town tragedy.

After Danielle Emhof — an eighth grader at Mark Twain Middle School — was inspired by two of her teachers to run in the National Marathon in March in honor of the 26 lives lost in the Sandy Hook shooting, school counselor Tawny Desjardins is now developing and planning a running program for Twain Middle School students that will start next school year.

"Our goal is to work and do some research and get it started next year," Desjardins said. "We want to end the school year next year with a 5K and help support 26 for 26."

Desjardins grew up near Newtown, and has a classmate who lost someone in the shooting in December. Because of her close ties with the town and Sandy Hook, Desjardins — like Emhof — said she was inspired to do something to show support for victims and their families.

Desjardins said many of the faculty members are in support of the program and are helping plan for next year and supporting Danielle Emhof as she helps to implement the program while ending her middle school career at Twain Middle.

See also:

PHOTOS: Twain Middle School Students Run Marathon for Sandy Hook Victims

Twain Middle Schooler to Run in National Marathon in Honor of Sandy Hook Victims

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