Washburn District Elementary School students jump, shoot for heart

    WASHBURN, Maine – For the 23nd consecutive year, Washburn District Elementary School students are jumping rope and shooting hoops to raise money for the American Heart Association, and this year, they’re hoping to break a milestone.
    After raising over $9,000 last year, the school has only $4,000 more to raise to break the $100,000 mark.
Jumping and shooting commence March 21 and 22, respectively as students in grades 1-8 use exercise as a way to help a worthy cause. For every $50 each student raises, he or she has their name entered into a drawing for a chance to win a bicycle. In addition, each student, who raises over $150, is entered into a drawing for the New England region for a chance to win a trip to Walt Disney World in Florida.
The school is also offering incentives including a movie, snacks and open gym time to students in grades 1-4 who raise $75 or more by March 3 while students in grades 5-8 raising $100 or more by this date get a sleepover at the school gym.
Parents are also welcome to join in the fun by stopping by the gymnasium during the Jump Rope and Hoops for Heart programs. The program is hosted by physical education instructor Laura Gardiner.