STRATFORD—Each year, the Vicki Soto Memorial Fund organizes a family friendly 5K race. Supporters are invited to gather on the first Saturday of November in the picturesque Lordship section of Stratford, Vicki’s hometown.
Like most events this year, the 8th Annual Vicki Soto 5K went virtual. However, that did not stop Stratford’s St. Mark School from embarking upon a new way to celebrate the life of Vicki, the 27-year old first grade teacher who lost her life in the Sandy Hook mass shooting.
The St. Mark School Community, who assembled a team of 84 runners last year, quickly brainstormed on ways to support this worthy cause. Students purchased Limited Edition Race T-Shirts for $10 and the school initiated a $5 “dress down day,” where in lieu of their uniform, students could wear to school pink, green or anything decorated with flamingos, Vicki’s favorite animal.
“As a former first grade teacher, I often reflect on how Vicki Soto’s selfless actions embody the life of Christ,” shared St. Mark Principal Melissa Warner. “I am so proud that our school community continues to honor her legacy.”
This year, St. Mark School raised $600 for the Vicki Soto Memorial Fund. The fund awards scholarships to students pursuing careers in education. To date, they have awarded $180,000 in educational scholarships and provided $100,000 in literacy, educated and community enrichment.
(St. Mark School, Stratford’s only Blue Ribbon School, provides an academically rigorous, faith-based education to students in grades Pre-K through 8. St. Mark School is currently accepting applications for the 2021-2022 academic year. For more information, please visit www.stmarkschool.org.)
