The American Heart Association on Thursday lauded longtime Albany School of Humanities (ASH) physical education teacher Leslie Bogucki for encouraging 30 years of students to be active and for raising some $200,000 for the Heart Association during that time.
She was recognized for her efforts during the ASH Grade 6 Moving Up Ceremony.
“Like all great teachers, Leslie Bogucki makes learning fun. She gets even the most reluctant students excited about exercising and being healthy, and her work with the Heart Association is just one example of how she motivates kids to help the community while they help themselves,” said Kimberly Young Wilkins, Ed.D., interim superintendent of the City School District of Albany.
Bogucki, pictured at right accepting the honor, has incorporated “Jump Rope for Heart” into her lessons by teaching students about the importance of healthy habits and exercise – including jumping rope. Each year she spearheads a school-wide “Big Jump” event where students jump rope to raise money for Heart Association programs.
According to the Heart Association, one third of all of New York children are overweight or obese, putting them at high risk for heart disease or stroke later in life.
“By engaging them in a fun activity like jumping rope, Leslie has taught generations of children that exercise if fun, increasing their chances or living longer, healthier lives,” said Kathy Lanni, chair of the Heart Association’s Capital Region Advisory Board.
ASH Principal Fred Engelhardt noted Bogucki’s success in engaging students in health and fitness while at the same time encouraging them to be good global citizens.
“Jump Rope for Heart is one activity Ms. Bogucki always finds time to champion, and the school community looks forward to it every year. She leads the charge to inform students of healthy practices and encourages them to help others,” he said.
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The mission of the City School District of Albany is to educate and prepare all students for college and career, citizenship and life, in partnership with our diverse community. The district serves more than 9,600 students in 17 elementary, middle and high schools. In addition to neighborhood schools, the district includes several magnet schools and programs, as well as other innovative academic opportunities for students, including four themed academies at Albany High School.
