FRANKLIN — Washington Street School recently received a Heart of Gold Certificate from the American Heart Association (AHA) after raising $22,162 during the AHA Kids Heart Challenge.
On Thursday, Sept. 24, a representative from the AHA delivered the Heart of Gold Certificate to the Washington Street School for raising the sixth-highest donation amount of all participating schools in Massachusetts.
The AHA Kids Heart Challenge is a school-based program that teaches elementary school students heart-healthy habits and lifesaving skills, while collecting donations for children with heart conditions.
“I am incredibly proud to see our students recognized for their successful fundraising during the AHA Kids Heart Challenge,” said Superintendent Lucas Giguere. “Being among the top 10 highest fundraising schools is truly impressive, and I’d like to thank our students and families for their generosity in supporting such an important cause. We are grateful to have received the Heart of Gold Certificate.”
The top 10 participating schools in the state are awarded certificates. Schools are recognized based on their engagement and impact in the Kids Heart Challenge, including the total funds raised, number of students involved and activities incorporated into physical education and health classes.
All Washington Street School students participated in the challenge through classroom programming, and 230 families donated to the challenge.
During the program, which ran from Feb. 9-23, students practiced heart-healthy forms of exercise such as jump rope during physical education class. In health class, students learned about the anatomy and functions of the heart, CPR and components of fitness.
“I look forward to watching our students continue to practice the heart-healthy habits they learned during the program,” said K-2 Principal Stefani Wasik. “Caring for your own health and the health of others is an important lesson our students will carry with them as they move through life. We are proud to teach these values early on at Washington Street School, and are excited to see our students grow as they work these habits into their daily lives.”
Students also participated in various challenges available on the Kids Heart Challenge Website. The school tracked donations and awarded prizes to students throughout the challenge period.
“We are so proud of our students for taking part in this program, and we hope they are proud of themselves, as well,” said 3-5 Principal Evan Chelman. “We want to thank our physical education and health teachers, who incorporated the Kids Heart Challenge into the curriculum in a fun and engaging way for our students. Through their hard work, our students had the opportunity to learn skills that have lifelong benefits, participate in challenges and raise money for a great cause during the Kids Heart Challenge”
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