This year, Winnetonka’s annual blood drive brought students and staff together for a day of giving back. Sponsored by HOSA and organized by teachers Carolyn Knapp and Elizabeth Roberts, the event welcomed 57 donors to the Aux Gym, where the Red Cross team guided everyone through each step.

Before donating, students were reminded to eat breakfast and drink plenty of water. At check-in, donors showed their ID or PowerSchool to verify their age, completed the Rapid Pass questionnaire, and then met with a phlebotomist to check their blood pressure, pulse, and hemoglobin.

Inside the gym, the atmosphere stayed upbeat with music playing and volunteers keeping things positive. After donating, students and staff grabbed cookies, fruit snacks, and juice in the recovery area. Most walked out feeling proud to have made a real difference.

By the end of the day, Tonka collected 37 pints of blood, all of which will go to local hospitals to help patients in need. “It is an incredible experience to share life with people who need blood or blood parts,” Roberts said. “These can be life saving for the people who receive them.”

The school has hosted blood drives for many years, with HOSA leading the event since 2022, continuing a tradition started by the Leadership class nearly a decade ago.