45 Schools receive blood pressure kits as part of American Heart Association initiative
The American Heart Association, devoted to changing the future to a world of healthier lives for all, is improving health outcomes in greater Hartford with a new initiative, the Heart Health Matters program. The recently launched program is providing blood pressure monitoring stations in 45 public schools across greater Hartford.
The Heart Health Matters program kicked off May 16, 2025 with each of the 45 schools receiving a blood pressure kit and other educational materials. The goal of the program is to promote regular blood pressure monitoring and empower educators and administrators to take charge of their health.
Each school’s blood pressure station is equipped with a blood pressure device for use by faculty and staff. In addition to the device, the Association provided educational materials such as videos on how to monitor blood pressure, along with science-backed resources for lowering cardiovascular disease risks.
“By launching health hubs and providing self-monitoring blood pressure stations, we can work together to create a healthier environment for school faculty, staff, and ultimately the children they serve, said Connecticut Executive Director Adria Giordano. “The American Heart Association remains committed to improving health outcomes in Hartford and looks forward to the opportunity to collaborate with Hartford Public Schools to make meaningful strides in addressing equitable health and reducing cardiovascular disease risks.”
High blood pressure (HBP), also known as hypertension, affects nearly half of U.S. adults and in Connecticut 30% of adult residents have been diagnosed. Although HBP is a controllable risk factor for cardiovascular disease most people don’t know they have it. Monitoring blood pressure regularly is the only way to find out if you have it. Discussing readings with a physician can determine the best course of treatment.
“The availability of these resources on school premises ensures that health care is more accessible, promoting a culture of wellness across Hartford Public Schools,” said Community Impact Vice President Lynette Coleman. “These health hubs can become integral in creating a healthier, more resilient workforce, while providing school nurses and administrators with the tools to support their colleagues.”
Data from the National Council on Teacher Quality reveals that 65% of Hartford Public School teachers are women. In Connecticut, almost 30% of women report having high blood pressure, and 60% of strokes occur in women. Alarmingly, Black and Hispanic women are experiencing strokes at younger ages.
The Hartford Public School district employs more than 3,000 staff members, including teachers, administrators, and support personnel. Over 16,500 PreK-12 students are served across the 45 schools.
Learn more about blood pressure and risk factors here: High Blood Pressure | American Heart Association
Pictured above L to R: Lynette Coleman, American Heart Association VP of Community Impact, Ben Carlson of Annie Fisher Magnet School. Erin Wilson Ruff, School Principal, Angela Boratko, Assistant Principal, Dr. Leslie Torres-Rodrigues, Hartford Public School Superintendent and Association Connecticut Board Member, Adria Giordano, Connecticut Executive Director.