All 53 students at Grande Ronde Academy took part in the ninth annual Hoop-a-thon, the largest fundraiser the school puts on, Friday morning. Individuals, groups or businesses could sponsor a student or the entire event by either a) a flat donation or b) a per-shot-made donation. Each student took turns attempting to make as many baskets as possible. After each round, students would then share their name, age and number of baskets made with the group. Prizes were also on hand for students to earn based on their performance, many of which were donated. Members of the Eastern Oregon football team were also on hand to help rebound for the students and provide support. According to GRA director Don McLean, the event brought in about $32,000 last year, and $20,000 of the $27,000 goal for this year’s had already been raised. McLean added that fundraising, like the Hoop-a-thon, helps pay for about 30 percent of the academy’s expenses.