Northgate Navigators, from left, Jason Hodina, Scarlett Lazo, Zakir Rasheed, Roman Anderson, Lauren Harrison, Isabella Martinez and Sofia Morales proudly pose during the Northgate Crossing Jump Rope for Heart campaign.

HOUSTON – Feb. 20, 2018 – Northgate Crossing Elementary School staff, students and family members proved, once again, that they have a heart for not only staying healthy themselves, but also for helping others stay healthy. For the 10th consecutive year, the Northgate Navigators participated in the American Heart Association’s Jump Rope for Heart Campaign, and this year, they raised over $8,400 during the two-day event held in the school’s gymnasium. 

Coordinated by Marla Estes, physical education teacher and team leader at Northgate Crossing, the Jump Rope for Heart event gives children the opportunity to learn the importance of maintaining a healthy life style, making heart-healthy fitness a lifelong habit and working together to give back to the community.

“Our main goal is to help raise money for those special hearts,” said Estes. “It’s very motivational for the kids as they come and help each other while doing their activities; it’s a great leadership activity.”

According to the American Heart Association’s website, heart disease deaths have declined so steadily over the decades that they are eagerly awaiting the day when it is no longer the leading cause of death in the United States. In addition, the association has already seen the death rate due to stroke drop from the number-three cause of death in the United States to number five over just five years.

 “We are honored to raise money and have our supporters exercising for the cause,” Estes said.