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The Coulee Montessori eighth-grader will rock in a rocking chair for seven hours while friends, classmates and community members pledge money.
“At first, I wanted to raise money for the Hixon Forest trails,” Olson said, “but then I went to the (ecopark) Web site and figured why not do that.
“I like otters and also think the new park is going to be a lot better,” he said. “I’m excited and wanted to help.”
The teen educated his classmates and school about the project and organized the Rock-a-thon, which will be from 2 to 9 p.m. today in the Roosevelt Elementary School/Coulee Montessori gym, 1307 Hayes St.
In addition to Olson’s rocking, there will be music, games and face-painting.
“The amount of work Tim put in is amazing,” said Patrick Shay, a fourth-grade teacher at Roosevelt and Olson’s mentor for the project. “It’s been really fun watching him complete this huge project.”
Coulee Montessori students are required to complete 10 hours of community service, said Gina Morken, adolescent program teacher at the charter school. Some students focused their efforts on the the humane society, while others did storm drain stenciling, she said.
Shay estimated Olson put in at least 50 hours on the project.
Construction is expected to begin this summer on the ecopark, said Jim Morgan, executive director.
The nature and education center building has been designed and will be taken to the park board Thursday for approval, Morgan said.
Ecopark organizers hope to raise about $4.5 million for the project. About $2.8 million has been raised so far, Morgan said.
Autumn Grooms can be reached at (608) 791-8424 or agrooms@lacrossetribune.com.
