Valley View classroom fundraises, school receives physical education grant

BONNERS FERRY — Valley View teacher receives a $3500 grant for physical education supplies after participating in the Kids Heart Challenge.

Through the Kids Heart Challenge, kids are moving with jump rope competitions, basketball skills, dance and “warrior” obstacle courses.

Besides taking a healthy pledge, students learn how their hearts work and raise money to keep other hearts working.

Valley View Elementary has been hosting an event for the past five years, with Mrs. Paula Petesch leading the cause after Mr. Beck handed over the program.

Every year students at Valley View have been able to donate money to the American Heart Association. The American Heart Association has been working closely with schools for more than 40 years.

According to the news release, Cameron Kerttu was the top fundraiser during the 2019-2020 school year. He was so excited “to raise money to help kids who have special hearts like his little sister, Zoe.”

By participating in this annual event, the coordinator is able to apply for a PE grant.

Mrs. Petesch was the only Idaho PE teacher who received a $3,500 Kids Heart Challenge grant. Valley View will be able to purchase yoga mats, disc golf equipment and throwing targets with this grant.

“Thank you to community members who have contributed money to our fundraisers,” Petesch said.