Their exuberant behavior could be chalked up to time spent outdoors during school hours.

In what seemed like an extended recess, students at St. John Neumann Regional School in Palmerton did their best to raise awareness on Friday.

That’s because they participated in their annual Walkathon, which serves as the school’s biggest fundraiser of the year.

The Rev. Mike Mullins said 55 students in grades K-8 took part in the trek, which spanned sections of downtown Palmerton.

“It’s an exercise of walking and praying,” Mullins said. “We walk together in union with Christ and build minds, hearts, souls, and help the community.”

Mullins said that the Allentown Central Catholic High School Marching Band and cheering crew also performed.

Among the educational activities were Super Science & Amazing Art of PA by Cathy Seacrest of Lehighton.

Eighth-grader Sophia Papay said she believes the event is good for the school for a variety of reasons.

“It’s a good fundraising thing,” said Sophia, 13. “It motivates people to donate to the school, and brings in a lot of money into the school.”

Fifth-grader David Papay echoed his sister’s thoughts.

“It raises money for the school,” said David, 10. “I enjoy the walk.”

Their brother, second-grader Jacob Papay, appeared to be focused on his lunch.

“I like the free pizza lunch,” said Jacob, 7.

Jim Pompa, chairman of the Walkathon, said this year’s goal was to raise $40,000.

He said that $25,000 had been raised at the time of the walk by way of business sponsors and local and family donations.

Pompa said last year’s event raised $32,500 of the $40,000 goal.

He said that anyone interested in sponsoring the school may contact 610-826-2354, sjnrswalkathon@gmail.com, or www.sjnrsschool.org.

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.