District recognized for fundraising efforts

The West Chester Area School District was recognized by the American Heart Association for their fundraising.

WEST CHESTER » The West Chester Area School District was recognized by the American Heart Association (AHA) at the Sept. 24 school board meeting for their fundraising efforts for the organization. The district raised $139,226.96 during the 2017-18 school year.

Colleen Csenteri, Director of Youth Markets for the American Heart Association, Philadelphia Metro Area, said the West Chester Area School District is the third highest school district contributor in Pennsylvania.

“It is an amazing accomplishment. This community makes an incredible impact in reducing death and disability from heart disease and stroke, and I thank each student and family for participating as well as all of the teachers that lead these programs,” said Csenteri.

WCASD’s partnership with the American Heart Association began in 1998. To date, the district has raised nearly $1.5 million.

Csenteri presented the award to the school board, members of the WCASD physical education department, and students from Exton Elementary School, which raised close to $24,000, the most money in the district.

Donations to AHA were collected through Hoops for Heart, Jump for Heart, and Volleyball for Heart events held at the district’s elementary, middle, and high schools. The fundraisers not only support the overall mission of the AHA but for students, they reinforce the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle and eating a balanced diet.

“We are extremely proud of our staff and students for promoting health and fitness while raising money for a great cause,” said Superintendent Jim Scanlon.

SUBMITTED PHOTO The West Chester Area School District received an award from the American Heart Association at the September school board meeting for being one of the state’s top contributing school districts.