For the students, it was a chance to breathe in some fresh air and take a stroll through the park with their friends.

While that’s important, the main significance of St. John Neumann Regional School’s annual Walkathon lies in the amount of funds that are raised.

Jim Pompa, chairman of the Walkathon, underscored the true value of Thursday morning’s fundraiser in Palmerton, which benefits the students directly.

Pompa noted that the event is the school’s biggest fundraiser of the year, and added this year’s goal was to raise $40,000.

Of that, he said $34,000 had been raised at the time of the walk courtesy of business sponsors and local and family donations.

Besides the walk itself, the event includes the addition of a monthlong virtual event.

Faculty, staff and families flanked the students on their trek through the park and town.

Kindergartner Tanner Kovacs was accompanied by his mother, Megan Kovacs, as he walked with his friend, fellow kindergartner Joseph Yannone and his mother, Mary Yannone.

“It’s good,” said Tanner, 6, of the Walkathon.

“I like it,” agreed Joseph, 6. “And being with my best friend, Tanner.”

Just a few feet away, first-graders Kira Ducati and Colin Nierer spoke glowingly of the activity.

“I like the music,” said Kira, 6.

“The music,” agreed Collin, 6. “To raise money.”

School Principal Mary Comensky said the event’s success is pivotal for the school to succeed.

“It’s paramount for us to raise funds to stay open,” Comensky said.

Pompa said the money raised from past years has helped to update the school’s computer labs; purchase additional Smart Boards (interactive whiteboards); new text books; and educational field trips for its students.

He said last year, the school managed to raise over $37,000 through the fundraiser.