Jordan Creek P.E. Teacher Wins Award from American Heart Association

Luis Suarez, physical education teacher at Jordan Creek Elementary, has received the Best Jump and Hoops in the Des Moines Metro 2011-12 award from the American Heart Association for the school’s participation in Jump Rope for Heart and Hoops for Heart.

According to the West Des Moines school district's blog, Beth Peck, youth marketing director for the AHA, credits Suarez for saving 65 lives last year.

“The success of his program is a clear indication of how effective he is at reaching students,” said Peck. “4,600 people will have a heart attack or stroke today and only half of them will survive. He is truly making a difference in the fight against cardiovascular disease and in the health of students.” 

Suarez, who credits the generosity and hard work of the Jordan Creek parents and students, coordinated Jump Rope for Heart with first- through fourth-graders, while the fifth- and sixth-graders participated in Hoops for Heart. Over three weeks, students spent 15 minutes during each class period concentrating on the event. He estimates his students completed 120 minutes of jumping.

“This program fits in so well with our curriculum,” said Suarez on the blog. “Our goal is heart disease prevention.”

Jump Rope For Heart and Hoops for Heart are national fundraising programs sponsored by the AHA. These  programs promote physical activity, heart healthy living, and community service to children.