World Diabetes Day, recognized annually Nov. 14, became a United Nations World Health Day for the first time in 2007.

Centre High School students marked the day by participating in a Healthy Choices Jeopardy game and raising $1,075 for the American Diabetes Association in a School Walk for Diabetes.

The event was Nov. 12 as part of Red Ribbon Week and focused on diabetes in children and adolescents.

According to the International Diabetes Federation, Type 1 diabetes is growing by three percent per year in children and adolescents and at an alarming five percent per year among pre-school children. Currently, an estimated 440,000 children globally live with Type 1 diabetes.

Student council members Josie Peterson and Alex Hajek hosted the Healthy Choices Jeopardy event. Adam Kristek and Rustyn Kerbs distributed prizes donated by area businesses and individuals, and Theo Kassebaum operated and helped create the Jeopardy PowerPoint.

Student council sponsor Lynley Remy helped organize the event.

Centre elementary and middle school students raised $2,630 this spring in a School Walk for Diabetes.

“Events like this underscore that contributions of one dollar, two dollars, or five dollars are important and that together we can make a difference,” said Jennifer Kassebaum, school walk coordinator. “The extraordinary effort of many Centre students, their families, and friends in supporting this event is a great testimonial about the importance of service and caring for others that is a part of Centre’s emphasis on character education.”