Kendall Elementary students discovered that they can raise a lot of money for a great cause by jumping rope and shooting some hoops. The school recently raised $11,325.55 for the American Heart Association during the 2003 Hoops for Heart and Jump Rope for Heart fundraisers. In the 22 years Kendall has participated in Jump Rope for Heart, students have collected approximately $174,000 for the American Heart Association. "Raising such a large amount in such a small community proves that many outstanding and dedicated people live here, and are interested in helping this worthwhile organization," said Linda Curtis, physical education teacher. Kendall was the first school in Orleans County to participate in Jump Rope for Heart, and has continued to participate every year since. In 1987, the school's first year, students raised over $10,000 as well.

This year, Kendall also participated in Hoops for Heart, which was combined with Jump Rope for Heart as a community service project. Over 200 students collected donations from the community after which the physical education classes took part in basketball and jump rope activities. Grades 4-6 could participate in either activity for three classes. Grades 2 and 3 participated in the jump rope activities for three classes.

Kendall Elementary physical education program also benefits from the Jump Rope for Heart and Hoops for Heart fundraiser. Not only did students receive prizes, but their school will receive a gift certificate to purchase physical education equipment.