Elementary schools in the Pella Community School District recently finished up their Jump Rope for Heart programs.

Lincoln, Madison, and Jefferson Schools raised over $16,000 for the American Heart Association. Physical Education Teachers Mike Gettemy, Katie Gravert, and Joe Burch organized the effort that 232 students contributed to.

All three P.E. teachers thank the community and local businesses for supporting the American Heart Association and the Jump Rope for Heart program.
Gettemy said, “I’ve had a few parents reach out to me through email telling me how great this fundraiser is because they have had someone in their life that has been affected by heart disease.” Mike said a first grade student also commented, “this is important to me because it can save my cousin’s life.”

Gravert commented, “Every year Madison students outdo themselves for a great cause that is near and dear to many of them along with some of our very own students being impacted. I am proud of the commitment to keeping their hearts healthy.”

“It is vital our students learn about the importance of a healthy heart at an early age. Learning about nutrition and physical activity now will lead to healthier lives for our kids down the road,” said Physical Education teacher Joe Burch. Jefferson Intermediate had an assembly to celebrate where students who raised over $100 got to pour slime on principal Brian Miller, John Kramer, Brenna Vogel, and Joe Burch.

Jefferson Intermediate had an assembly to celebrate where students who raised over $100 got to pour slime on principal Brian Miller, John Kramer, Brenna Vogel, and Joe Burch.