Students and staff across Harford County Public Schools raised $216,032 for the American Heart Association during the 2025-2026 school year through the Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge. Eleven schools participated, with nearly 3,900 students registering for the challenge.

More than 750 families completed Finn's Mission, an initiative that teaches Hands-Only CPR and the warning signs of stroke. More than 300 schools across Maryland partnered with the American Heart Association this school year.

"I am consistently amazed and impressed by how much Harford County Public Schools students think about the needs of others day in and day out," said Interim Superintendent Dr. Dyann R. Mack. "Their care about others is a testament to our community. I appreciate the educators, families, and community members that supported this service-learning project. By learning today about the importance of service, our students are building a foundation to become strong leaders for our future."

Six HCPS schools ranked among the top 25 fundraisers in Maryland:

• Homestead-Wakefield Elementary School - $57,579 raised (1st in Maryland for the second year in a row, 14th in the Nation)

• Hickory Elementary School - $41,947 raised (2nd in Maryland, 34th in the Nation)

• Fallston Middle School - $33,950 raised (4th in Maryland, 3rd middle school in the Nation)

• Churchville Elementary School - $18,511 raised (17th in Maryland)

• Joppatowne Elementary School - $16,239 raised (23rd in Maryland)

• Patterson Mill Middle School - $15,933 raised (25th in Maryland, 6th middle school in the Nation)

"I am incredibly proud of these eleven schools for their outstanding commitment to the Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge this year," said Kate Poole, Senior Development Director, School Engagement for the American Heart Association. "Students, families, and educators came together to support heart health, build lifelong healthy habits, and make a meaningful difference. Their passion and dedication continue to inspire and create lasting impact in our community."

Below is a breakdown of each participating school’s impact: