St. Jude School jumping for world record

In an effort to help the United States break a record number of students performing jumping jacks in 24 hours, approximately 300 St. Jude School students are taking the challenge.

Students forming rows of 50 each will begin Oct. 12 at 1 p.m. on the school’s front lawn athletic field. Each student will jump nonstop for one minute. Schools across the country will take part at different times to complete the 24-hour period.

“We want to be part of the group that breaks the record,” said St. Jude School development director Kathie Etherton. “It’s a good opportunity to let our kids compete in something nationally with other students across the United States.”

In order to break the world record, more than 20,000 U.S. students must complete jumping jacks nonstop for one minute in the 24-hour timeframe from Oct. 11 at 3 p.m. until Oct. 12 at 3 p.m. Any school across the country is eligible.

“It’s about getting kids moving and showing them that exercise is fun,” said Etherton. “St. Jude students are training for the competition and excited to participate.”

She said National Geographic Kids magazine and first lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move campaign initiated the effort to break the record. She said Michelle Obama and National Geographic Kids will lead a group of students in jumping jacks on the White House lawn.

St. Jude School physical education teacher Stacey Chrnalogar, a University of Tennessee at Chattanooga alumna, is recruiting UTC students to serve as time keepers, witnesses and supervisors for the St. Jude students competing.

A UTC supervisor will be in charge of each team of 50 children at St. Jude School.

“We are excited,” said St. Jude School athletic director Jason Hill. “We hope to have excellent jumpers competing.”