The Port Jefferson School District hosted their annual St. Baldrick’s event to raise money for childhood cancer research on March 17. Elementary, middle, and high school students, staff, and community members had their heads shaved by volunteer hairdressers from the Long Island Beauty School in solidarity with cancer patients as a symbol of support and a way to help raise critical funds. Participants raised more than $22,000 for the cause, a new school record.

The event was organized by Earl L. Vandermeulen High School senior Kyle Martin, a childhood survivor of rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer. Kyle spent most of second grade in treatment at Cohen’s Children’s Hospital. His appreciation for the organizations that helped him and his family during this rough time inspired him to give back to others battling cancer. March 17 marked 10 years cancer-free for Martin.

"Port Jefferson is an incredibly tight-knit community that always comes together to support one another," said Earl L. Vandermeulen High School Principal John Ruggero. "Seeing everybody shaving their heads in solidarity is truly inspiring. Today’s St. Baldrick’s event was yet another example of the generosity and compassion that make me so proud of our school community."