The American Heart Association recognized Mokena Elementary Teacher Steve Hippleheuser for his leadership in coordinating school efforts towards supporting the organization’s Kids Heart Challenge for the past 21 years.
Jennifer Gunderson, School Engagement Director for the American Heart Association, visited the district at its February Board of Education meeting in which she spoke about Steve’s contributions and long-time impact. Jennifer stated, “For 21 years, Mr. Hippleheuser has poured his time, energy, and passion into the Kids Heart Challenge and in those two decades he has helped to raise an extraordinary $527,000. That is not just a number, that is thousands of lives touched, educated, and most importantly lives saved.”
Steve was presented with a certificate memorializing his impact in his final year at Mokena Elementary School as he is set to retire at the end of the school year after 33 years teaching in the district. His implementation of the Kids Heart Challenge has led to generations of students learning about the importance of heart health, hands only CPR, and the importance of caring for their bodies.
It was also revealed in the meeting that Mokena Elementary School is the number one school in Illinois for funds raised this school year. “These aren’t just fundraising milestones, they are a testament to the culture of generosity and community that has been built here,” stated Gunderson.
“Mr. H is the driving force behind the success of the Kids Heart Challenge at MES. He is a passionate advocate for heart health, as evidenced by the funds raised by our families and the countless lives impacted during his twenty-one years of leadership,” shared Principal Rachel Chorley.