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Heart Heroes
Little Panthers Preschool raises more than $9K for American Heart Association
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Little Panthers Preschool students participated in a Kids Heart Challenge assembly in January, where they learned what it means to be “Heart Heroes” through lessons focused on healthy habits, physical activity, kindness, and helping others.

Little Panthers Preschool students and families made a big impact this spring through the school’s participation in the Kids Heart Challenge, raising more than $9,000 for the American Heart Association — nearly double the school’s original fundraising goal.

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Jennifer Clarke, Regional Development Director with the American Heart Association, presented a certificate of achievement to Taylor Paden, student family advocate, and Tandi Mai, principal at Little Panthers Preschool, during the May 11, USD 428 Board of Education meeting in recognition of the school’s successful Kids Heart Challenge fundraiser.

During the May 11, USD 428 Board of Education meeting, Jennifer Clarke, Regional Development Director with the American Heart Association, presented a certificate of achievement to Taylor Paden, student family advocate, and Tandi Mai, principal at Little Panthers Preschool, in recognition of the school’s outstanding efforts.

Little Panthers Preschool launched the Kids Heart Challenge in January with a goal of raising $5,000. With participation from 92 students and their families, the preschool surpassed that goal while helping students learn valuable lessons about heart health and healthy lifestyles.

Through the program, students explored healthy eating habits, the importance of physical activity through the NFL PLAY 60 initiative, and ways they can care for their hearts while helping others.

USD 428 Superintendent Khris Thexton praised the efforts of the preschool community and the positive lessons students gained through the experience.

“We are incredibly proud of the students, families, and staff at Little Panthers Preschool for their generosity and enthusiasm,” said Thexton. “The Kids Heart Challenge not only supports an important cause, but it also helps foster empathy, kindness, and a spirit of giving in our children through the Heart Heroes process. These are lessons that will stay with students long after the fundraiser ends.”

The recognition highlights the positive impact young students can make when schools and families work together with a common goal. For more information about the American Heart Association, visit heart.org.