Feb. 1, 2019

Contributed by Nadine Lagaso

The Kamehameha Schools Kapalāma Elementary School rope-jumping team was named National Outstanding Team of the Year by the American Heart Association. Team members visit more than 20 schools across the state each year to encourage and inspire students to be active by rope-jumping.

“By being part of the team, our students learn the importance of taking care of their body and exercising,” said P.E. kumu Lynn McDonald, who has coached the team for 28 years. “We perform to music with set routines. Students on the demo team not only develop rope-jumping skills, they learn leadership, cooperation, and the importance of being kākou-minded.”

The team has taken part in the American Heart Association’s annual Jump Rope for Heart fundraiser since 1978. Last year, the association recognized KS Kapālama Elementary School for helping its students surpass the $1 million mark raised through 40 years of participation.

The KS Kapalāma Elementary School rope-jumping team was named National Outstanding Team of the Year by the American Heart Association. Team members not only learn the importance exercise, but also learn leadership, cooperation, and how to be kākou-minded.