Lyseth Becomes a "Sea of Green" for Cancer Society Fundraiser | Schools

Portland’s Lyseth Elementary School became a "sea of green" on March 16, the day before St. Patrick’s Day, as a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society that was organized by fifth grade student Luke Hill.

Luke’s mother, Amy MacDuffie Hill, died of cancer in January. Luke promised to donate a nickel of his own money to the American Cancer Society for every Lyseth student who arrived at school on March 16

wearing green.

Luke presented his idea to Lyseth Principal Lenore Williams and Assistant Principal Sandra Gorsuch-Plummer on March 15. They readily agreed, and wrote a note to families telling them about the event. The principals offered to match Luke’s donation, and they also put a donation jar out for any families who wanted to make an additional contribution to the American Cancer Society.

Of the 511 students enrolled at Lyseth, 493 wore green to school on March 16. "It was heartwarming how quickly this was all pulled together," said Gorsuch-Plummer. "The school is a sea of green."

The fundraiser netted $372.72, including $24.65 donated by Luke.

Hill worked as a teacher in the Cumberland schools. She and her husband, John, had two other children who also attend Lyseth, a kindergartner, Sophie, and a third grader, Emily.