Students at Kilough Elementary recently participated in Jump Rope For Heart, a national educational fundraising program that is sponsored by the American Heart Association and the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance.

According to physical education teacher Patrick Muenchen, Kilough raised $2,516.50, Tim Spooner’s fifth grade class raised $262, the highest amount for one classroom.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of Jump Rope for Heart and Muenchen said that 27 students at Kilough individually raised more than $30 each in honor of the milestone.

“We realized that many families are struggling financially, and we worked hard to encourage all the kids to participate and for each one to try to bring $1,” said Muenchen.

Jump Rope for Heart is an educational program that teaches physical fitness and promotes the value of community service to students as well as their families.

The program shows students that they can contribute to the well-being of their community.

All classes at Kilough particpated in the fundraiser Feb. 10-13. During P.E., students engaged in jumping rope through contests and games, and were encouraged to each bring a $1 donation.

E-mail Elizabeth Hamilton at elizabeth@dawsonnews.com.