The money raised by the Polar Plop was donated to Special Olympics to provide year-round sports training and competition for thousands of athletes with intellectual disabilities. “Our contribution and involvement helps athletes achieve their goals, live healthier lives, and have a sense of inclusion in the community,” according to Office Manager Heather Cass.

The dollar war started March 8 and donors could specify which teachers would ‘benefit’ from their contributions.

At noon Tuesday, March 14, Megan Minich had a total of $150 raised in her name to finish in the top spot.

It was a mixed blessing.

Tidioute Community Charter School Teacher Dave Manning missed out on the five-gallon bucket of river water, but, for his efforts in the Polar Plop fundraising event for Special Olympics, won the consolation prize — an ice-water balloon over the head.

“The top three participating staff members with the most money donated got a five-gallon bucket of river water dumped on their heads,” Cass said.

Minich was joined by Andrew Waugaman and Michelle Buccardo as the “winners.”

“The water was ice cold but it was for a good cause and the students were yelling with joy,” Minich said.

The other participating teachers – Sara Robinson, Christy Valentine, Dave Manning, Joni Schettler, and Nicole Cope – did not escape scot-free. They each had ice-water balloons broken over their heads.

The system shock did not convince teachers to dodge the event in the future.

“I will participate in a heartbeat again next year to see the excitement in the students’ faces,” Minich said.