G-APS students to jump for heart, help save lives

Students at Greencastle-Antrim Primary School are jumping at the chance to fight heart disease and stroke, the nation's number one and four killers.

During Wellness class Feb. 4, the youngsters will participate in Jump Rope for Heart to raise money for the American Heart Association. The funds support lifeaving heart and stroke research, and community and educational programs for youth. Kids jump into a heart-healthier life while becoming passionate about raising money for other kid with sick hearts.

Area residents may make a donation by contacting the school at 597-3226, ext. 40560, or by going online at heart.org/jump. Click on Greencastle-Antrim Primary School. Trish Schriver, primary wellness teacher, is the G-APS Jump Rope for Heart coordinator.

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 recent studies, about one-third of children ages 2 to 19 are overweight or obese.

Over 33 years, Jump Rope for Heart has raised more that $818 million for the fight against heart disease and stroke. Millions of students have jumped rope and learned about heart health, and how nutrition and physical activity can help prevent heart disease and stroke. Jump Rope for Heart is co-sponsored by the American Heart Association and the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance.