Howe Hall AIMs is a school full of givers.
The school recently learned that it raised the most money out of all participating schools in Berkeley County School District for the American Heart Association through the Kids Heart Challenge. Howe Halls AIMS raised more than $25,000 in life-saving donations.
The school’s efforts have resulted in it earning the Heart of Gold Award from the American Heart Association.
Berkeley County School District is the second highest-earning district in the state for the association, with Howe Hall AIMS leading the way. In addition to being the number-one school in the district, Howe Hall AIMS also ranked number-six in the state for its fundraising efforts this year.
P.E. teacher Kim Pond has worked to raise money for the American Heart Association since her first year of teaching – she is now in her 26th year.
Howe Hall AIMs is a smaller school population at roughly 425 students. Despite this, Pond said their fundraising amount has always been very high.
“Each year at Howe Hall AIMS we keep going up and every year we are astounded at the amount our kids raise,” she said.
The Kids Heart Challenge teaches students about the human heart while they help raise money for the American Heart Association by participating in cardio-pumping challenges. The American Heart Association pulls together step-by-step instructions for P.E. teachers to help them host fun activities in their school with engaging educational modules that teach heart-healthy information to students.
Pond said last year Howe Hall AIMS ranked number-two in the state for its fundraising efforts. About four years ago, the school opted to go strictly online – a move that Pond said made it easier for families to donate.
Pond’s students practice jump roping skills for roughly two weeks before having any big fundraising event. Prior to the pandemic, families were also invited to such events. The students also get rewarded with little “thank you” gifts that they receive during their P.E. classes.