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In the beginning of February, the elementary students began a "Jump Rope for Heart" effort through their gym class under the guidance of physical education teachers Michelle Hiltsley and Jamie Tranchida. The students participated in various jump rope activities in gym class for different skill levels to get their heart rates going and received pledge donations from family and friends for their effort.
"The students are taught a variety of jumps, from the rope being on the ground to single and group jump-roping," Hiltsley said.
Hiltsley said that the heart program began at Todd Elementary School more than 30 years ago with a goal to spread awareness on heart disease to the children at a young age. By the end of the effort on March 4, the students raised the $5,400 and Hiltsley said that some donations are still trickling in. Students were able to dedicate their money raising effort to someone special in their lives who was affected by heart disease by decorating a heart cutout with their name which are on display in the school's multi-purpose room.
All money raised will be donated to the American Heart Association. The United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention lists heart disease as the leading cause of death in the country.
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