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"The dedication of the kids and the hours that they put in to raise money for the American Heart Association is second to none," Rick LaPaglia, Physical Education teacher at French Road.

This year, students raised more than $85,000 through its Jump Rope for Heart campaign.
As a result, French Road became the number one school in the nation to raise money through the popular program. It's a title the school's held 14 years.

"Our physical education staff sends the message to the kids that we are doing this event to benefit people who are less fortunate than us," said LaPaglia.

Wednesday night, French Road was honored, along with Churchville Chili's Chestnut Elementary School, by the local division of the American Heart Association. Chestnut also tops the list, for its $34,000 contribution through a different program.

"It's been 20 years we have been participating in the American Heart Association's Jump Rope and Hoops and this is our best year ever obviously and we're very proud of our students and our entire community," said Mike Schluter, Chestnut Elementary School.

The American Heart Association recognized several volunteers and organizations who dedicate their time to raise money and support programs for the organization. Board Chairman Bill LaForte says its through their work that helps AHA continues to put up a fight against heart disease and stroke, America's number one and number four killers.

"It's a wonderful thing for our community to be able to have an opportunity to recognize companies, organizations and individuals who have given up a lot of their time and have volunteered their time to help us all become better, lead healthier lives," said LaForte.

American Heart Association