J.W. Dodd Middle School raises nearly $10,000 for pediatric cancer

Freeport Public Schools’ Dodd Middle School hosted its inaugural St. Baldrick’s Day head-shaving fundraiser on March 20 gathering district administrators, teachers, staff, students and community members in a remarkable show of support for pediatric cancer. 

The event, held in the school’s gymnasium, featured Principal Christopher Porciello, Director of Mathematics Dr. Anthony Murray, teachers and students courageously shaving their heads to raise funds and awareness for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation. Attendees also participated by purchasing raffle tickets and making donations to support the cause. In total, Dodd Middle School raised nearly $10,000 for the foundation. 

Dodd Middle School teacher Andrew Abberton coordinated the event, organizing both the head-shaving ceremony and additional fundraising efforts leading up to the big day. 

“This event is about more than just shaving heads—it’s about showing solidarity with children battling cancer and making a real impact through fundraising,” said Abberton. “I am incredibly proud of our school community for supporting this cause.”

Volunteer barbers from Trimz Barbershop, led by owner Leon Lavar Broughton, donated their time and skills to make the event a success. A former student of Dodd Middle School, Lavar expressed his excitement in giving back and has already pledged to participate again next year.

“This was an amazing event that brought our school community together in a meaningful way,” said Principal Christopher Porciello. “Seeing our students and staff take part in something so impactful reminds us of the power of working together for a good cause. We look forward to making this an annual tradition.”

One of the most moving moments of the event was a heartfelt speech from the Blades family. Lennie Blades shared his family’s emotional journey after his son, Elijah, was diagnosed with cancer and underwent treatment. Elijah, a cancer survivor, and his brother Nathaniel are both former Dodd Middle School students. Their story resonated with all in attendance, reinforcing the importance of fundraising events like St. Baldrick’s. 

Among the 10 brave individuals who shaved their heads were Principal Porciello, Dr. Anthony Murray, Mr. Abberton, seventh grade student Joseph Rodriguez and eighth grade student Evan Mateo. Together, Joseph and Evan raised over $1,000 to support the cause.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Fia P. Davis was present throughout the event, cheering on participants and offering her support. 

“It is truly inspiring to see our school community come together for such an important cause. The bravery and generosity of our students, staff and community members demonstrate the heart of Freeport,” said Dr. Davis.

Honored guest Alanna Bender spoke about the history and impact of the St. Baldrick’s Foundation. She shared that her husband, John Bender, co-founded the event over 25 years ago and has shaved his head in support every year since.

Dodd Middle School’s first St. Baldrick’s Day fundraiser was a success, and the school looks forward to continuing this meaningful tradition in the years to come.

For more information about the St. Baldrick’s Foundation and how to contribute, visit www.stbaldricks.org.

 

Photo captions: 

1. Dodd Middle School’s first St. Baldrick’s Day fundraiser shared the emotional story of the Blades family and their son’s journey with pediatric cancer. From left, Dodd Middle School Principal Christopher Porciello, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Fia P. Davis, Dodd Middle School teacher and St. Baldrick’s event coordinator Andrew Abberton, Elijah Blades, Lennie Blades, Karen King-Blades, Nathaniel Blades, board of education trustee Maria Jordan Awalom and Dodd PTA President Alphonso Hartwick. 
2. Student Evan Matteo (left) shaved his head and raised funds for the Dodd Middle School St. Baldrick’s event on March 20. Also photographed Dodd Middle School teacher and event coordinator Andrew Abberton and Principal Christopher Porciello. 
3. Dodd teacher Dulce Rosario proudly shaved her head in support of pediatric cancer at Dodd Middle School on March 20. 

 

Photos courtesy of Freeport Public Schools