Students at Newton Yost Elementary jumped at the chance to fight heart disease and stroke, our nation’s No. 1 and No. 4 killers. During the month of February, students hosted their annual Jump Rope for Heart event to raise money for the American Heart Association, which funds lifesaving heart and stroke research and community and educational programs.
Jump Rope for Heart teaches students how physical fitness benefits the heart and shows them that volunteering can be a fun and positive experience for the whole community. The need to educate children about the importance of physical activity couldn’t be timelier. According to a recent study, about one-third of children ages 2 to 19 are overweight and obese.
“This is my favorite time of the school year,” said Yost physical education teacher Tana Bamber. “My students love jumping rope and learning about how physical fitness can keep their hearts healthy. This year, we had many families come in and participate and be active in the Jump Rope event. It was fun to see parents and grandparents jumping rope with the students.”
Apart from the health benefits, students also gained knowledge in community service by raising money. This was Bamber’s second year running a Jump event. “Yost raised a little over $12,000 for the American Heart Association. This event would not be so successful if it wasn't for the combined efforts and generosity of the jumpers, parents, teachers, and especially the community. I am so proud of all of our students for being heart heroes,” she said.
Students Jump for Heart: Third graders Sanders Hamilton, front, and Amelia Kella, back, jump rope during their Jump Rope for Heart event at the school. (Duneland Schools photo by Bridget Martinson)