SOUTH POINT — Students are staying fit and helping a good cause.

South Point Elementary is hosting its annual Hoops for Heart event all week at the school.

Physical education teacher Drew Lynd has been setting up activities in the school’s gym all week, to teach kids about fitness.

“It’s through the American Heart Association,” he said. “The goal is to raise money for research and to promote awareness.”

He said the school’s fundraising effort runs for about two weeks, following an opening assembly.

Students go door-to-door and seek donations from neighbors, family and friends.

As a reward for their efforts, prizes are awarded, from jump ropes for lower levels to an Ezy Roller scooter for the higher amounts.

On Wednesday, Lynd has a series of stations set up, which students rotated between for the class period.

Thursday’s participants were second grade students, many of whom were in colorful costumes as part of the school’s Read Across America events, also taking part this week.

Activities included an obstacle course, hula hoops, jump ropes, basketball games, hopscotch and a limbo rope.

“We do this each day,” he said, pointing out that a different group of students take part each day. “It’s timed, and the top three of each class get a price.”

Hoops for Heart is a national effort, organized by the AHA.