STRATFORD, Conn. (WTNH) — Thousands flocked to Stratford for the Vicki Soto 5K.

Flamingos lined the race route. They were the Sandy Hook teacher’s favorite bird. Soto died protecting her students during the school shooting in 2012. For the past four years, her family has held this fundraiser for the scholarship in her name. The scholarships are for students who want to become educators.

“Her life revolved around being an educator, passionate teacher from early on. Her dream was to be a teacher and unfortunately that’s what ended up taking her life as well,” said Jim Wiltsie, Vicki Soto’s Cousin.

Organizers say since 2013, they’ve raised close to $40,000 in scholarships.

More than 3,500 people attended Saturday’s event.