There is only way to describe 1,500 enthusiastic high school students cheering for their respective schools.

On Thursday morning United Way volunteers passed out earplugs at the Woodstock Community Centre arena during the United Way Oxford’s Student StairClimb.

Rachel Robinson of the Oxford United Way described it as “insanely loud” cheering for their school and community.

“It’s our biggest stair climb to date,” Robinson said. Students from St. Mary’s, Ingersoll District High School, WCI, Glendale, Huron Park and CASS participated in the annual event that surpassed last year’s goal of $37,000.

“Our goal was to beat last year’s goal and keep students coming back and as excited and enthusiastic as they could be,” Robinson said. “We’re thrilled to report we broke a record with $40,000 raised.”

Robinson said the students we’re making “an incredible impact across the county.”

“It’s more than the dollar amount,” she said. “It’s youth rallying as one voice through their community.”

Each student pledges a minimum of $20 to take part in the event with a top student in 2017 raising $1,500.

For the last 13 IDCI had repeatedly taken home the honour of raising the most funds each year.

“We love to come,” said Kayla Han of IDCI. “We’re proud to raise money for the community. We love to get decked out in blue and white.”

Megan Stevenson, co prime minister of CASS, said the Woodstock students enjoy taking part in the fundraiser.

“We’re here to bump up spirit and get excited about the community.”

HRivers@postmedia.com