Arnold Elementary Jumps from the Heart

The music was thumping as were the heartbeats of many students at Arnold Elementary School last week during the school’s annual Jump Rope for Heart fundraiser.

Jane Bounelis, physical education teacher at the school, said she had been participating in the Jump Rope for Heart program for about 20 years.

“The boys and girls sure did have a great time at our special event,” said Bounelis.

Jump Rope For Heart is a national fundraising program sponsored jointly by the American Heart Association and the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. The event promotes physical activity, heart healthy living, and community service to children.

According to the Jump Rope for Heart website, these events have funded scientists who went on to win Nobel Prizes for their work. And over the years they have assisted the American Heart Association with working with health care providers to reduce the number of people dying from heart disease and stroke by 25%.

Parents are an important part of the effort. “Many wonderful parents and teachers donate their time to face paint, apply rub on tattoos, and offer water breaks to the students,” said Bounelis.

At AES, students excitedly showed off their new jump roping skills, including single player moves like the forward straddle and heel-to-toe, as well as partner skills like face-to-face and side-to-side.

Lisa Baynes, or "DJ Lee" as she likes to be called, of Smooth Grooves DJ’s, donated her services for the cause. She had the kids pumped up with exciting music as she shouted out which kind of jumping she wanted to see.

DJ Lee also threw in some other activities like a dance off between the girls and the boys and old favorites like the “Cha-Cha Slide.”

This year the students raised $10,057, and Bounelis couldn’t be prouder.

“Isn't that amazing?” she asked. “I feel so fortunate to work in a community where so many families are so supportive of helping such a great cause. Kids can really make a difference.”