by student writer Ellie Hoover
Jumping jacks are a great way to keep hearts happy and healthy, but here at Dogwood jumping rope is also a great way to raise money for kids with sick hearts. Kids Heart Challenge is a huge fundraiser DES takes part in every year, and is on a national leaderboard annually. This year when Dogwood hit half of their goal as a school they were already number one in the state of Tennessee. The final amount for money raised was $66,071.88.
Another thing P.E. classes did was jump ropes for the duration of the class time. Whether they threw long ropes with partners or short ropes by themselves, it was always fun. Classes take part in many fun activities and incentives during the fund raiser. From sliming a teacher to having a neon jump party, the incentives were amazing. During the neon jump party P.E. teachers turned off all the lights and all glow sticks and a few led lights light the room.
“It was dark and fun,” fifth grader Brooklyn Bishop said.
The money raised was also a big factor in why the school continues to do the fundraiser each year.
"It all goes to a good cause,” P.E. teacher Dana Guntharp said. “You just feel good about the money you raised.”
Winning classes were also rewarded for raising the most money. Fredrick, Carmichael, Stafford, Hammontree, Sweda, and Moak were the winning classes in each grade. Kids Heart Challenge helps every dolphin stay happy and healthy.