Elise Neyhart, a fifth-grade student at West Mercer, gives the proceeds of her lemonade stand to West Mercer Principal Rich Mellish for Bridge the Gap.

Bridge the Gap is an annual fundraiser to fund the difference between state support and actual needs. The money will protect 20 teaching positions, keeping classes smaller.

It is a partnership between the Mercer Island Schools Foundation, Mercer Island PTAs and the school district.