Origins
The First Leader of the Pack 5K and Fun Run originated through the efforts of the 2010 Class of Leadership Rutherford for their Community Project. The main goal of the project was to offer support and to help raise funds for Communities in Schools of Rutherford County. Communities in Schools of Rutherford County (CISRC) adopted the event in 2011 as their signature fundraising event. In 20
14 the Rutherford County Schools Education Foundation took over planning for the leader of the pack 5K.
*Organizational Mission:
Our mission is to enrich the educational experiences for our school communities. Our schools promote leadership and citizenship while preparing their students for success. The RCSEF is helping our schools be the most progressive in the state and nation. Programs Supported By Your Contributions
* Mentoring:
The goal of this program is to provide each student with a one-on-one mentorship outside the normal student/teacher relationship, thus resulting in better family relationships, grades, attendance, and behavior. We now have coordinators at every elementary school in the county and continue our great relationship with the McNair Foundation which provides mentors for our middle and high school students.
* Back Pack Program:
The Back Pack program numbers continue to grow both in children served and the partners who make it happen. This program supplies enough food for the weekend for students in need. RCSEF serves as the facilitator for funding the program, while RCS facilitates any coordinating, training or support needed. The Back Pack Food Program is possible through a community effort with financial support coming mainly from faith groups, business, and local food groups.
* Going G.L.O.B.A.L.:
Rutherford County Schools is Growing Learning Opportunities Beyond All Limits. A key component of this project is a 1:1 technology initiative providing laptops to all students in grades 5 through 12, as well iPad carts for all classrooms in grades kindergarten through 4. RCSEF supports the school system in its efforts to prepare all students for college and career success by helping to eliminate any barriers that would prevent success.
* Teacher Recognition:
The RCSEF takes every opportunity to express our gratitude to our educators, both past and present, for choosing the profession of education. We have established the Rutherford County Schools Hall of Fame to recognize the outstanding work of teachers and leaders in our county, and have plans for further recognitions as funding allows.
* Other Programs:
We plan to continue programs begun by the Rutherford County CIS organization such as Stuff the Bus, Build-a-Backpack, and Staples for Students
Pre-registration Costs
5K Race
*Students K -12:$10.00 (Age 1-18)
Non-student: $2500
1/2 Mile Fun Run after 5K is Free (12 and under)
Registration Methods
*Online Preregistration last until 5/13/22
https://runsignup.com/Race/NC/ForestCity/LeaderofthePack5K
*Mail in registration must be postmarked by 5/5/22..
**Wicking shirts guaranteed if registered or postmarked by 5/5/22
Make check payable to: RCSEF
Mail to: Rutherford County Schools
Attn: Ritchie Garland
382 West Main St. Forest City, NC 28043
Race Day Registration Costs
*5K Race Day Registration: $25
*Free 1/2 Mile Fun Run
*Registration opens at 6:00 am and closes at 7:30 am
*No registration will be taken after 7:30am. Race Packet Pick-up Information
Date: Friday, May 12 3:30pm - 7:00pm Location: Cool Springs Administration
382 West Main Street Forest City, NC 28043
Date: Saturday, May 14 6:00am – 7:30am Location: McNair Stadium
McNair Dr.
Forest City, NC 28043
Race Awards
*Top Overall Male/Female (1st, 2nd, 3rd)
*Top Master Male/Female (1st and 2nd)
Medal Awards (1st, 2nd, 3rd) Male/Female in the following age groups:
0-4 *5-6 *7-8 *9-10 *11-12 *13-14 *15-19 *20-24 *25-29 *30-34
An award of $100 will be given for the following:
*Top Elementary School Participation
*Top Middle/High School Participation
Top participation awards will be presented to the schools with the highest percentage of runners on the day of the race based on total school enrollment. Individuals must be present at the race to count towards participation. Be sure to check in at the school’s table on the day of the race. The school with the most registrations, including phantom runners, will receive an award of $100 as well. None of the school level awards will be determined by race times.
