Strides for Education 5K brings runners together for Waltham schools

Runners, families and community members will gather on Moody Street on Sunday, May 3, for the Waltham Education and Beyond Foundation’s “Strides for Education 5K and Kids Fun Run,” the organization’s premier annual fundraiser. 

The event features music from DJ Shaw and a Zumba warmup to energize participants before the race. Kids in grades K–3 will kick things off with a 1K fun run at 11 a.m., traveling from Shoppers Cafe to the Moody Street bridge. The 5K race will follow, starting at noon at the bridge.

After the race, a post-celebration is planned at Shoppers Cafe, which will bring participants together for refreshments and community spirit.

“We welcome participants of all ages and abilities. It’s a lot of fun, and a great way to support Waltham schools,” said WEBF Director Susan Shaw. “We had more than 600 runners last year, and we’re hoping for another great turnout Sunday.”

Sign up here for the WEBF Strides for Education 5K and see a map of the running route.

Founded in 2007, the WEBF is a volunteer-based, nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening public education in Waltham. It raises funds through community donations and events, then awards those funds as grants to Waltham public schools. 

These grants are used to support educational programs and classroom projects that promote student engagement. Last year, the WEBF funded the Solar Eclipse learning project for elementary schools, art tours of Boston for WHS students and the “Waltham Roots” community project among other programs.

Through its ongoing fundraising efforts and community involvement, including signature events like the annual road race, the foundation plays a key role in expanding educational possibilities for students across the city.