With both the temperature and water hovering just around 32 degrees this weekend, 55 “polar bears” took the plunge to help raise money for a local Catholic school.

During the fourth annual St. Joseph’s Regional Academy Polar Plunge, held at Mauch Chunk Lake in Jim Thorpe on Saturday, dozens of jumpers, as well as 16 chickens who registered for the event but chose not to jump, braved the cold winter weather to participate in the event. Some were dressed in costumes, while others donned their summer attire.When all was said and done, the fundraiser raised thousands for the school. An official total was not available Monday since GoFundMe pages and other donations were still pouring in, but just under $2,500 was raised through the plunge registration fees alone.Amanda Salovay, the principal of the school, said she was happy with the turnout.“This is such a great event,” she said. “I know it’s a bit of a challenge to come out in the cold and jump into the cold water. But it’s a great support for the school, and it definitely shows that they care about the school and want to support the school.“It’s great to see everyone and be a part of this.”Kathy Goff, one of the organizers of the event, said she was thrilled by the number of people who came out to support St. Joseph’s. She said this was the most plungers to date.Both newbie plungers, as well as seasoned polar bears were excited to show their support.Kirby Thompson of Gilbert, who was the first plunger of the day, said her mom signed her up but she was happy to be jumping for the first time. Moments later, Thompson set the bar high for the rest of the jumpers as she ran in and dunked herself.Brian Volovski of Jim Thorpe said this was his second time doing the plunge and he was very excited.“I really like doing it,” he said.Betty McCall, a fourth-grade teacher at St. Joseph’s and a third-year plunger, said she keeps coming back because it is for a good cause.“My children both went to Catholic school and I support Catholic schools,” she said.There were also three premier plungers who helped raise additional funds for the event. They included Marian coaches, Rachel Krajcirik, volleyball; Tony Radocha, baseball; and Joe Rafferty, football.The three were thrilled to be giving back to the community by participating.“This is a way to give back to the area,” Radocha said.