Bowling Green Middle School cafeteria erupted with school spirit Tuesday morning when the Otsego Knight mascot and students from that school brought bags full of coins over to sabotage the “penny war” between the two schools.
The “penny war” is underway to raise funds for the inclusive playground being built in Bowling Green’s Carter Park by Wood County Plays.
Leadership BG organized the battle between Bowling Green and Otsego school districts. Participation is open to all grades through Friday.
All the proceeds will benefit the new playground, which will allow children of all abilities to play side by side.
The rules of the “penny war” are as follows. The school will gain points by adding pennies or paper bills to the school bucket. Any silver coins added to the bucket will add up to negative points.
The school district with the most positive points wins – as will the playground project.
BG Middle School Principal Eric Radabaugh vowed to retaliate on Wednesday, by taking BG students and coins they have collected to Otsego.
“It really is a great cause,” Radabaugh said of the penny war for the playground. “It’s fun to have the schools unite.”
Anyone in the community who wants to contribute to the penny war may drop off coins or dollars at BG Middle School, Radabaugh said. People may also drop off money at the Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce, which organizes the Leadership BG program, according to Brianne Cooper.
