Kids in both Hillcrest and Westview schools gathered for their annual Terry Fox Walk/Run events on Thursday.

At Hillcrest, they filed out of the gymnasium to proceed in an orderly fashion around the block. K-2 teacher Sarah Posehn expressed that it was an important learning experience for the students.

"We looked at Terry Fox as a Canadian hero who had a really big goal, and he went for it. He didn't let anything get in his way, and that's something we're trying to teach our kids here. We want them to know that they can do hard things and set big goals, just like Terry did."

She said that this year's approach entailed encouraging the children to consider a goal that they would like to reach, and to ponder it during the trek.

"It's good team building, and it's good for them to see that life is bigger than just their own front door. They can make a difference, and they can impact change. It starts with one step at a time."

Kayln and Mrs. Haselhan from Hillcrest cross the street, following the line of students embarking on their walk.

Westview School also held their annual Terry Fox Walk. Cheri Haberstock, principal at the elementary school shared that the walk is only the culmination of an entire week of learning.

"We've been spending a lot of time talking to the students about the importance of the Terry Fox Run and why it's important to carry on Terry Fox's legacy by walking and raising money for cancer research."

She adds that it was interesting because a lot of them didn't even know who Terry Fox was.

"Every year, we have to refresh their memory of who Terry Fox was and what he did and how his life's purpose was so important and the great beginning he made to start this foundation that continues even here today, years after he's been gone."

She goes on to say that it isn't hard for the kids to make a personal connection with the story of Terry Fox.

"everyone of them knows somebody who, in their families, a friend or a neighbour, who has been touched by cancer and knows how devastating is and how we need to continue looking for a cure."

Students had been raising money during the week to go towards cancer research by collecting money through various means like a hat day. 

"We only have about 165 students so for us to $355, is pretty good for us."