Whispering Pines Elementary receives financial grant to provide heart rate monitors in PE class
Humble, TX July 21, 2025 — The American Heart Association’s school-based programs, Kids Heart Challenge™ and American Heart Challenge™, awarded $2,500 to Whispering Pines Elementary in Humble, TX for heart rate monitors to create an inclusive, informed, and motivating physical education experience that encourages students to take ownership of their health and well-being from an early age. The annual grant program supports schools by funding resources to extend school wellness initiatives. Heart rate monitors empower students to take ownership of their cardiovascular health by helping them exercise in the right intensity zones using an approach shown to improve heart function and reduce risk factors for heart disease.
“This grant marks a powerful step forward in transforming physical education through technology,” said Renita Searcy, Physical Education Teacher of Whispering Pines Elementary. “By tracking and understanding the heart using heart rate monitors, we’re not just teaching fitness—we’re empowering students to take ownership of their health, build lifelong wellness habits, and connect with their bodies in meaningful ways. This is innovation in motion.”
Schools nationwide that participated in either the Kids Heart Challenge or American Heart Challenge during the 2023-2024 school year were invited to apply for grants to fund resources to enhance their health and physical education programs. Seventy-seven schools were awarded grants, which will be used for various projects, including adding physical activity equipment, installing water filling stations, and enhancing educator training opportunities. The grant initiative provides funding twice a year, mid-school year and year end. The next grant application deadline will be near the end of next school year.
"As we move into our second century of lifesaving work, the American Heart Association remains deeply committed to youth through our in-school programs," said Lisa Fletcher, Senior School Engagement Director of the American Heart Association. "These programs are essential because they equip young people with the knowledge and habits needed to lead heart-healthy lives. Our future is about improving yours, and by investing in the health of our youth today, we are building a healthier future for everyone."
Both the Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge are rooted in proven science, which has shown that kids who are regularly active have a better chance of a healthy adulthood1. more than 10 million students in 20,000 schools each year, these service-learning programs give students the opportunity to feel good, while doing good.
Participating students, families and staff learn valuable skills, including how to make smart food choices, the importance of avoiding vaping/tobacco and the lifesaving skill of Hands-Only CPR. Educators are also supported with lesson plans and resources to support their physical and mental well-being.
In addition to learning about heart health, participating students and families have the opportunity to give back to the community by raising funds for the American Heart Association. Dollars raised help advance cardiovascular research and outreach programs, paving the way for improved health outcomes for healthier communities.
Schools interested in the grant opportunity are encouraged to register now to participate in either Kids Heart Challenge or American Heart Challenge for the 2024-2025 school year. To learn more visit heart.org/getstarted.
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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, on Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
214-706-1173
Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
