TRUMBULL COUNTY Get out the clippers! Principal to shave head if pupils reach goal

McKinley Elementary is looking to raise $650 toward the United Way's goal of $2.9 million.
By AMANDA C. DAVIS
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
WARREN -- Larry Johnson is ready to sacrifice his hair in the name of charity.
The McKinley Elementary principal has vowed to shave his head during an assembly Nov. 16 if pupils meet their $650 goal to raise money for the United Way campaign.
United Way of Trumbull County hopes to raise about $2.9 million for its 2001 campaign. A recent midway report showed about 48 percent of the goal had been collected.
The UW's final campaign report meeting will be Dec. 12 at the Avalon Inn and Resort in Howland.
United Way of Trumbull County, which helps fund 28 affiliate agencies, provides more than 140 programs and services to the local community.
Johnson, who has medium-length graying hair, said schools throughout the district are participating in the drive.
He made the same promise last year, but only $525 of the $600 goal was collected.
This year's goal is attainable, he said, adding that the PTO and some individuals have volunteered to pay the balance if pupils fall short.
The public can also donate or get more information by calling (330) 841-2413.
Going bald: Shaving his head is no big deal, Johnson insists. He just wanted to find a way to motivate pupils to participate.
Garland Bradshaw, UW's campaign director, said area schools do a good job of raising money for the annual drive.
The United Way gives out trophies each year to schools that have the most participation, and Bradshaw said Warren schools usually win.
The UW makes it a goal to get young people involved in the campaign, including the allocation process, so they learn more about philanthropy, what the UW is, and how it's funded.
"We hope [their involvement] is doing as much for them as it is for us," Bradshaw said.
Baseball caps: McKinley pupils are also permitted to wear ball caps and hats to school on Fridays through Nov. 16 if they donate 50 cents to the campaign.
Sandy Davis, a secretary for Warren schools, said her daughter, Tori Cross, 7, looks for money to take to school each day to benefit the cause.
"This is a big thing for the kids there," she said. "They really want to see Mr. Johnson without his hair."
Bradshaw likes the idea that Johnson is stepping up to encourage his students to give back to their community.
"I'd like to see more bald-headed principals around town," he added.
davis@vindy.com