Students at BPES are Learnin' the (Jump) Ropes

Broadalbin-Perth Elementary School students were treated to the American Heart Association Kids Heart Challenge kickoff assembly to start their week on Monday, Feb. 5. This year's kick-off event featured Nick and Kaylee Woodard, professional jump rope athletes from "Learnin' the Ropes." The duo has performed across the globe at a variety of venues and events, including NBA games, Cirque Du Soleil, schools, and summer camps. The assembly marked the start of the Kids Heart Challenge at BPES, which aims to raise awareness of how children can keep their hearts and brains healthy, while also raising funds to help kids with special hearts. The challenge continues through Thursday, Feb. 29.

The assembly generated excitement around the Kids Heart Challenge, as the Woodard duo showcased their jump rope talents. The Woodards started their presentation with a variety of jump rope stunts while also offering messages of encouragement and support to students at BPES.

"The louder you are, the higher we jump," Nick Woodard said. Students took the challenge to heart, filling the school's gymnasium with their cheers.

After their presentation, the duo called a few students to the stage to practice their jump rope skills and show other students how it’s done. They were then taught how to do more complicated moves, like a jump rope push-up. After this, another group of students was invited to the floor to do double-dutch in front of the group. Students quickly caught on, making it look like an easy task. BPES teachers Amanda McAuliffe and Jon Aery also joined in on the fun.

The assembly wrapped up with the Woodards encouraging students to follow their passions and dreams while emphasizing that mastering anything takes time and practice.  

"What do you think it took for us to go from basic skills to professional?" Nick Woodard asked. "Lots of years of practice, time, energy, skills. You saw a lot of skills today. Try, make mistakes, and ask questions to master that skill. It takes a lot of time — it takes never ever giving up." 

This is the 10th year BPES has participated in the Kids Heart Challenge. To date, the district has raised $56,877 for the American Heart Association through the program. Donations may be made to the AHA Kids Heart Challenge here.