The RBHS Polar Plunge took place Saturday, February 18. Students “polar plunged” into chilly Lake Michigan in order to raise money for Special Olympics Illinois.

“Plungers get sponsored to jump into Lake Michigan to raise money for Special Olympics Illinois. This money directly benefits our athletes at RB because it pays for things like basketball tournaments, track meets, state championships, etc, which are free for our athletes due to these funds,” said social studies teacher Jill Musil.

Musil runs the Polar Plunge along with social studies teacher John Fields.

A great deal of money was raised for an even greater cause. Participants worked hard to achieve their acquired goals.

“We’ve come close to our goal of $2,000 as a team. The rest of the Plungers at the beach on Feb 18 raised a total of $77,086, and the ‘Super Plungers’ [who plunge once an hour for 24 hours straight] raised $148,195,” said Musil.

This event brings students together for a great cause and also an exciting experience.

“The most rewarding aspect is knowing you’re doing something fun and crazy for a good cause. It’s also great for ‘bragging rights,’ but the overall wonderfulness of it all is that so many people gather together to be ridiculous and try something crazy all to benefit those with intellectual disabilities,” said Musil.