Students at Cicero Elementary School got a sweet reward for their fundraising efforts Wednesday. To celebrate setting a school fundraising record for the Kids Heart Challenge™, top fundraisers, including fourth grader and heart disease survivor Nora Tees, got to cover their principal and physical education teacher in whipped cream, chocolate sauce, sprinkles and more, turning them into an “ice cream sundae.”
The school-based Kids Heart Challenge program, led by the American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, equips students with the tools and confidence to care for their physical and emotional well-being. This year, Cicero Elementary students raised $24,000 through the program. The school is the #1 fundraiser in Onondaga County and #8 in New York State. Over the last six years, Cicero Elementary School has raised more than $123,000.
The Kids Heart Challenge is rooted in proven science which has shown that kids who are regularly active have a better chance of a healthy adulthood. In addition to improved physical health, the benefits of physical activity for children include better grades, school attendance and classroom behavior. Physical activity can also help kids feel better, improve mental health, build self-esteem and decrease and prevent conditions such as anxiety and depression.
“The Kids Heart Challenge is an opportunity to empower students with the knowledge and tools to live heart-healthy lives,” said Laurie Schmidt, school engagement director with the American Heart Association. “By prioritizing heart health and physical activity, Cicero Elementary School is setting a powerful example for students, families and the entire community. Their dedication underscores the importance of instilling healthy habits in young people, ensuring longer, healthier lives for all.”
For nearly 50 years, the American Heart Association has been working with educators in elementary, middle and high schools across the nation to help educate students about healthy living. The Kids Heart Challenge™ and American Heart Challenge™ are service learning-based fundraising programs that give students the opportunity to feel good, while doing good. To bring one of these programs to your campus, visit heart.org/getstarted.