Knights of Columbus raise $15,130 with Tootsie Roll 5K for Madison special ed

A Knights of Columbus member presents the “High School Team Award” to Sylvia Lambert, Principal of Bob Jones High School. Bob Jones has received the honor for two consecutive years. Photo courtesy of Madison City Schools

MADISON – A local organization’s fundraising event collected more than $15,000 for Madison City Schools.

Knights of Columbus Council 10232 with members from St. John the Baptist Catholic Church and Most Merciful Jesus Catholic Parish sponsored the Tootsie Roll 5K and Fun Run. On Jan. 29, the knights presented $15,130 to benefit MCS students in the special education group.

“Knights of Columbus have been faithful and generous supporters of MCS programs over the years, concentrating its help on special needs students,” MCS Public Relations Manager John Peck said. Approximately 500 people participated in Tootsie Roll events.

The Tootsie Roll 5K and Fun Run on Nov. 1, 2025, started and ended at Journey Middle School. USA Track & Field or USATF certified the route.

“The Tootsie Roll Run has generated more than $200,000 for MCS SPED over the years for software, specialized teaching tools and instructional material, communication boards and learning aids, special sensory rooms and more,” Peck said.

Helping people with disabilities is a hallmark focus of Knights of Columbus chapters nationwide. “The run has come to symbolize both a fun activity for families and a serious one for hardcore runners. Students are encouraged to sign up under their school’s team name to promote friendly competition between schools,” Peck said.

Students in elementary, middle and high school received awards for their spirited participation in the run:

• School Team Participa- tion Award – Staff & Family – West Madison First Class Pre-Kindergarten Center.

• School Team Participation Award — Heritage Elementary School. Heritage won this award for the second consecutive year.

• Division Awards: Elementary School Team Award – Heritage Elementary School.

• Division Awards: Middle School Team Award Liberty Middle School.

• Division Awards: High School Team Award — Bob Jones High School. Bob Jones has won the award for two consecutive years.

Knights of Columbus members actively participate in many community activities, such as Madison Street Festival, Madison Christmas Parade, Veterans Day Parade and a bi-monthly blood drive at the parish. Knights bought and installed four flag poles in Madison, and they work with local veteran organizations to conduct public flag retirement ceremonies.