Gaffney Middle students supporting St. Jude's

Gaffney Middle School students will put their math problem solving skills to the test Tuesday with the kickoff of a fundraiser for St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital.

The 700 Gaffney Middle students will join many schools nationwide in participating in the 27th annual Math-A-Thon. The students will work through a 250-problem math book solving problems involving traditional math operations, algebra, word problems and puzzles.

"This is the first time we have done the Math-A-Thon as a schoolwide fundraiser," Gaffney Middle School assistant Principal David Smith said. "This is for a great cause to help support St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital."

Students will get money pledges from their friends and family members for each problem they answer correctly. All proceeds will go to the hospital, which is based in Memphis, Tenn., to help further its efforts to find a cure and save children from cancer.

Students will work on the math problems from March 13 until March 26. The winning class will be treated to a pizza party.

While students will receive a grade for working the math problems, Smith said the fundraiser is part of the school's effort to teach citizenship and community service.

"Our main goal is we want our students to learn that no matter their own situation they can always help others out and give back to their community," Smith said. "We hope the students' time and commitment will make a difference in the quality of life for many."