Hinsdale Central High School hosted a polar plunge on their campus during lunch hours on Friday, March 20. The plunge raised money to support Special Olympics Illinois athletes across the state. The money donated helps students with disabilities to be able to participate in year long competitions and training, supporting their personal development.

Hinsdale Central exceeded their donation goal, reaching $17,000 of their $10,000 goal. Each participant of the polar plunge, adults and students, had to earn $100 to give back to the cause in order to plunge. Sweatshirts were also given to people who donated $100 or more. 

Central set up a rectangular blow-up pool, and the Hinsdale Fire Department filled it up with freezing cold water for people to jump in. The event also included food trucks and a DJ for polar plunge participants as well as students and teachers coming to watch their peers jump. 

Students at Hinsdale Central enjoyed watching their friends and teachers take part in the polar plunge.

“I loved seeing my teachers plunge, especially the ones that went all the way in and did tricks or got their hair wet. I thought it was really fun to watch,” said Maddie Chillo, senior.

Hinsdale Central students appreciated the celebrations that came with the event during their lunch periods.

“I liked that Central had food trucks because it got more people out there to see what was happening. I loved all the music that was playing, and it just had a really uplifting vibe,” Chillo said. “Everyone was having a good time and was super positive.” 

Students who participated in the event said they were proud of raising money for a cause that they care deeply about, and had a good time plunging into the pool.

“I am a part of Peer Buddies and care a lot about the kids, so I was happy seeing all of their faces when I did the polar plunge,” said Ryan Baltazar,  senior. “I also was able to jump with my friend, Maddie Henry, so it was really exciting.” 

Teachers at Hinsdale Central were also eager to get involved in the plunge.

“Jumping into the pool wasn’t the worst thing I’ve ever done, and I thought that the Polar Plunge celebrations today were really fun and for a great cause,” said Melissa Jensen, science teacher. “Why not take a day out of school and have fun?”

To learn more about the money raised during the polar plunge, visit this link: https://support.soill.org/event/2026-letr-cool-school-hinsdale-central-hs-region-c/e740203