Newtown's elementary schools each participated in the American Heart Association's Jump Rope For Heart program, with students raising money and learning about heart health.

According to the American Heart Association, the Jump Rope For Heart fundraiser helps engage students to improve their own health while working to share information about heart-health issues. Jump Rope for Heart events, according to the association, are run by schools, and students raise money and pledge to jump rope.

Newtown's elementary schools held the Jump Rope For Heart programs on different days.

Head O' Meadow Elementary School physical education teacher Steve "Coach" Dreger said his school raised almost $10,000. Students participated the entire week of February 13 in the effort.

"We saved lives and had fun," said Coach Dreger.

Hawley Elementary School's Jump Rope For Heart programs were held in physical education classes March 2, 3, and 4, according to physical education teacher Doug Michlovitz. Students learned about heart health and jumped rope in class, and Mr Michlovitz said it was optional for students to raise funds for the American Heart Association. Hawley raised more than $1,000 for the cause.

At Middle Gate Elementary School on Thursday, March 16, students took turns jumping rope and tallying how many jumps they were completing. The school raised more than $7,000 by that date, according to physical education teacher Laura Cooper. Fourth grader Lola Roberts helped celebrate the entire week of the program by sharing morning announcements.

"I want to help because the more money I raise, the more it helps kids with heart problems in the hospitals," said Lola between jumping rope.

Sandy Hook Elementary School participated in the program during the week of March 20. On March 23, as students jumped rope and learned about heart health issues by completing a handmade puzzle, physical education teacher Jackie Lloyd explained that the school emphasized learning about health.

ifferent jumping stations were also set up for students to jump rope in different ways. Fourth graders worked to help show kindergartners the ropes. Ms Lloyd also said students in Sandy Hook School's Jump Rope Club also worked to jump and raise money for the cause.

By Friday, March 24, Ms Lloyd said Sandy Hook School had raised $8,163 for the American Heart Association.