St. Ignace Students Jump for a Cause

Mastering his jumping skills, Brennan Danielson takes on the challenge as James Goudreau (left) and Caleb Litzner hold the ropes. Also pictured are (from left) Cody Therrian and Joey Ostman.

Music, laughter, and jumping filled the school gymnasium in St. Ignace Friday, May 9, as part of a fundraising event.

Students in kindergarten through seventh grade took turns for six hours jumping rope alone and in groups. Under the direction of physical education teacher Emily Fullerton, students practiced their jump rope skills and moved through more than six jumping activities offered during the day.

Before the event, students had sought donations for their efforts and were able to contribute more than $3,100 to the American Heart Association.

"We have a very generous community," said Mrs. Fullerton.

Second grade student Kiara Bishop raised the most money. Her $315 contribution was in honor of her day care provider, Patsy Wyers, who had heart problems.

The focus of the program, said Mrs. Fullerton, was education. All students participated in the jumping program and were not required to raise funds. Students were, however, asked to discuss heart health, including the warning signs of heart attack and stroke, with family members.

In honor of her day care provider, Patsy Wyers, Kiara Bishop holds up her pledge sheet after raising $315 for the American Heart Association as part of Jump Rope for Heart at St. Ignace Elementary School Friday, May 9. (Photograph by Emily Fullerton)