The kick off event for the Physical Education class’s annual Jump Rope for Heart took place on Feb. 6 in two assemblies at Thomas Jefferson Elementary (601 S. Oak St., Falls Church). Students learned about the importance of exercise, drinking water, minimizing salt intake, eating a wide variety of fruits and vegetables and avoiding smoking.

TJ’s PE program has worked with the American Heart Association on this event for 11 years with strong results. Parents can check their students’ backpacks for more information about the optional fundraising part of the program.

The students have started strong, already topping $150 each. Parent volunteers are needed to help with jump rope activities in PE classes Feb. 25 – March 1.

Parents can sign up at signupgenius.com/go/20f0d49afa92ca1f58-kids.