Steckel Elementary School Principal Glenn Noack received a big surprise June 4.

Noack will ride a bicycle from Maine to Palmerton in the Pennsylvania Perimeter Ride Against Cancer (PPRAC). The six-day journey of 500 miles begins July 29 and will raise money for cancer research.

Noack's secretary, Deb Frankenfield, organized a pep rally which began with Steckel students and faculty waiting for Noack in the reading pit.

"They did a fantastic job keeping it a secret," Noack said. "I am inspired by others' thoughts and well wishes."

Frankenfield said she wanted to put together the event for the students to inspire them to do great things in life.

"The second and third graders at Steckel love Mr. Noack and look up to him," she said. "As for the students, they will see how you can achieve anything you put your mind to."

After the pep rally, students moved outdoors, cheering and holding up signs while Noack rode his bike around the school campus.

Noack said his ninth grade physical education teacher, Dan Cruttenden, made the trip and inspired him to do the same.

"I also was looking to do more for my community after being so well served by others for my entire life," said Noack.

He said he hopes his trip will inspire others to lend a helping hand in times of need.

"There are many ways to assist others," Noack said.

"The biggest thing is that this is a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, and to date we have raised over $8,500 and close to $100,000 overall by the 65 riders taking part in this PPRAC Ride," he added.

For more information on PPRAC, go to the organization's website at http://www.pprac.net.

During the pep rally, the students peppered Noack with a host of questions. Among them was how the community can follow his progress.

Noack said the school and community can follow his trip via the school's Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/George.D.Steckel.Elementary.School.