Mars Area School District’s elementary schools collected $44,588.10 as part of an annual fundraiser to benefit the American Heart Association.

Between Feb. 1 and March 4, Mars Area Centennial School raised $4,953.25 through the school’s participation in the American Heart Challenge. Mars Area Elementary School collected $23,894.73, and Mars Area Primary Center brought in $15,740.12 via the schools’ Kids Heart Challenge fundraisers.

In addition to collecting donations, students learned about proper heart health, while participating in heart healthy activities in their physical education classes. Students also joined in several theme day celebrations.