Mayfield Elementary has been participating in the American Heart Association’s Kids Heart Challenge for the last 17 years, raising a total of $278,113. This year’s challenge marks a special occasion, with students not only reaching an all-time fundraising high of $24,619, but physical education teacher Brian Moore being recognized as a Volunteer of the Year from the American Heart Association.
Mr. Moore began teaching at Mayfield in 2009 and established the district as a participant in the Kids Heart Challenge in his first year. Inspired by a fellow physical education teacher, Moore recognized this community service initiative as a natural fit for Mayfield, and a perfect opportunity to make a positive impact.
Each year the Kids Heart Challenge allows Mayfield students to join millions of other children across the country in a meaningful opportunity to learn and help others. Students learn how cardiovascular disease affects people, how their own hearts work, and how proper nutrition and physical activity can keep their heart healthy.
After an inspiring kick-off event, students are encouraged to ask their friends and families to support Mayfield’s fundraising efforts to meet their yearly goal. To celebrate their achievements, students then participate in a day of heart healthy activities including jump rope, bounce houses, a tight-rope walk and hands-only CPR practice. Parent and Jr/Sr High school student volunteers help make this a memorable event for everyone.
In 2026, Mayfield Elementary placed 2nd in New York State’s Top 20 Fundraising “Lifesavers”, and in 1st place for schools with the most families completing Finn’s Mission. Finn’s Mission is an additional challenge which encourages students and their families to take heart health awareness one step further by completing a series of activities including CPR and stroke recognition training, public awareness messaging, and additional donations.
Mr. Moore is proud to be a part of a district that truly cares about others.
“We have an amazing staff and school community here and I hope that this event can shed some positive light on how great our school is,” said Moore. “Over the years we have had many special students come through Mayfield Elementary who have been directly affected by heart disease and complications. It’s absolutely amazing to see that a school of our small size can have such a big heart.”
To learn more about the American Heart Association and the Kids Heart Challenge visit https://www.heart.org. If you would like to donate to future events, contact Brian Moore at moore.brian@mayfieldcsd.org or Maris Tegnander at logan.maris@mayfieldcsd.org.