Newtown’s elementary school students helped support the American Heart Association’s Jump Rope For Heart program between February and March.

According to the American Heart Association, its Jump Rope For Heart program teaches students to develop heart-healthy habits, be physically active, and raises funds to support cardiovascular research and education.

Students at all of Newtown’s four elementary schools took part in the program recently.

At Head O’ Meadow Elementary School, physical education teacher Steve “Coach” Dreger said students participated between February 10 and 14 and raised $12,466.

“The students competed in challenges and jump roping contests throughout the week and really connected with the concepts of selfless acts of charity, saving lives and promoting a more healthy lifestyle through physical fitness activities,” Coach Dreger said in an e-mail.

Middle Gate Elementary School students took part in physical education classes between February 24 and 25, according to physical education teacher Laura Cooper. The school raised $10,052 for the American Heart Association.

“Our school goal was 20,000 jumps and we exceeded the goal and jumped more than 32,000 times,” Cooper said in an e-mail.

Students in different grades at Middle Gate participated with ranging activities. Kindergarten to first graders, for instance, “hopped on hoppity hop balls, jumped in hula hoops, jumped personal ropes and long ropes, and did a long jump,” according to Cooper.

Sandy Hook Elementary School students participated February 24 to 28, according to physical education teacher Jackie Lloyd. Students took part in their physical education classes and learning six ways to keep their hearts and bodies healthy, she shared. The school raised roughly $10,500.

Hawley Elementary School students participated March 2 to 6. As students entered classes, physical education teacher Doug Michlovitz shared information about the Jump Rope For Heart program and explained different exercises the students could do to participate. The school raised roughly $2,800 for the American Heart Association.