First-Grader Raises $1,500 for Weho Elementary

Each week, West Hollywood Patch will seek suggestions from readers for individual kids, youth groups, teens, and even sports teams that wow us with their accomplishments. We want to hear about these amazing children and teens and select one each week as the Patch Whiz Kid. 

We launch our new series with 's Seth Luwisch. This 7-year-old managed to raise $1,500 for the school's Apple Fitness Challenge in March.

"I went all over my neighborhood, and I got a lot of money," said the curly-blonde-haired 7-year-old. "I talked to almost everyone in my dad's office. I said, 'My name is Seth and I go to West Hollywood Elementary. I am raising money for technology. Would you like to give us money?'"

Luwisch was one of 350 students who sought out pledges to participate in the Apple Fitness Challenge. Money raised from the "fitness-a-thon," which featured 10 different stations, including an obstacle course, tug-o-war and gymnastics, will go toward Apple-integrated technology for the school.

"We decided to make it a little more interesting for the kids this year," said Seth's mom Carina, who is treasurer for the Friends of West Hollywood Elementary booster club. 

This year, the group donated $80,000 to the school. Money has been used for yard and teacher aids, physical education teachers, as well as technology.

"Almost every class has a SMART Board," she said. iPads and iTouches are already being used by several classes. Next up are laptops for the upper grades and professional training for the teachers. "Hopefully, it will all be in place when the kids come back in the fall," Luwisch said.

Seth can't wait. "He is very into technology," Luwisch noted. When asked what he wants to be when he grows up, Seth is "not very sure."

James Bond is out of the question, since "he's fake." Developing a video game with his dad is a possibility. Seth's favorites are Lego Star Wars and Battle Bears, and Archers on his mother's iPhone. But his final decision is: "I want to be on YouTube."

Patch is on the lookout for noteworthy children and teens. Send your nomination to daniellej@patch.com