A teacher’s role normally is to prevent students from running circles with their homework, but this time it’s encouraged.

All students at Greywolf Elementary began their annual jog-a-thon fundraiser earlier this week where they receive pledges for each lap they run, jog and/or walk.

Money goes toward science equipment, books, art supplies and playground equipment.

Darci Ulin, Greywolf Parent Teacher Organization president, said this is the school’s biggest fundraiser next to its holiday bazaar.

In 2008, the jog-a-thon raised about $10,000.

"(Volunteers and school staff) will work with each individual classroom to make it more individual to each student and tie more into nutrition and health," Ulin said.

Teachers will take their classes out at their discretion to perform laps.

The jog-a-thon started more than 10 years ago as an alternative to traditional door-to-door sales.

"Parents don’t want to buy things they don’t want and selling things puts a strain on the children," said Anne Erickson, a Greywolf volunteer.

"We do it this way so that the kids who participate actually have some active fun, instead of having to sell a product."

Students have until Oct. 16 to gather pledges and will run their laps through Friday, Oct. 9.

Every child who turns in a pledge will win a prize.

Greywolf paraphernalia such as fleece blankets, ball caps and dog tags are some of the prizes available.