Baltimore County Public Schools first in Eastern region, 10th in nation for heart health fundraising
TOWSON, Md., July 16, 2025 — The American Heart Association is proud to announce that Baltimore County Public Schools has been ranked No. 10 in the nation and No. 1 in the Eastern States region for its exceptional fundraising efforts through the Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge during the 2024–2025 school year.
With participation from 33 schools, including 12 community schools, BCPS raised an impressive $321,421 in lifesaving donations. More than 3,180 students and families engaged in the programs, and 686 students participated in Finn’s Mission, learning Hands-Only CPR and the warning signs of stroke — skills that can save lives in their communities.
“This incredible achievement reflects the deep compassion and civic responsibility of our students, educators, and families,” said Dr. Myriam Rogers, Superintendent of Baltimore County Public Schools.
“By embracing the mission of the American Heart Association, our school communities are not only raising critical funds for heart health research and education — they are also learning how to take care of themselves and others,” Rogers added. “It’s inspiring to see our students become advocates for wellness and lifesaving action, and I am so proud of the impact they are making both locally and nationally.”
The top 5 fundraising schools in BCPS included:
- Riderwood Elementary School – $34,947
- Prettyboy Elementary School – $27,902
- Honeygo Elementary School – $25,587
- Cromwell Valley Elementary Magnet School – $24,239
- New Town Elementary School – $22,088
“Baltimore County Public Schools has shown what’s possible when a community comes together for a cause,” said Abby Bartley, Senior Vice President of School Engagement for the American Heart Association, Eastern States Region. “Their leadership in heart health education and fundraising is helping us build a healthier future for all Marylanders.”
The Eastern States region of the American Heart Association includes 13 states from Maine to Virginia and the District of Columbia, making it one of the largest and most active regions in the country.
In addition to raising funds, BCPS schools earned $25,440 in givebacks, which will support wellness initiatives and health education in their classrooms.
The Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge are school-based programs from the American Heart Association that teach students how to care for their hearts while raising funds for lifesaving research and community programs. These initiatives promote physical activity, mental well-being, and CPR education, empowering students to become heart heroes in their schools and communities.
The American Heart Association invites schools across Maryland and the nation to join the Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge. By participating, schools can equip students with critical health knowledge, support community wellness, and earn resources to enhance their own health and physical education programs.
To learn more or to register your school, visit www.heart.org/kidsheartchallenge.
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries
Wayne Carter, wayne.carter@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
