Elementary PE Teacher Recognized for Raising Over Half a Million Dollars for Heart Health

Mokena School District 159 Meeting | February 18, 2026

Article Summary: Mokena Elementary School PE teacher Steve Hippleheuser was honored for 21 years of service to the American Heart Association, having helped students raise $527,000 during his tenure.
Recognition Key Points:

• Fundraising Milestone: Mr. Hippleheuser has led efforts raising a total of $527,000 over 21 years for the American Heart Association.

• Current Year: MES raised nearly $44,000 this year, following a record-breaking $47,697 last year.

• Veteran Support: The district was also recognized for raising $3,171 for Honor Flight Chicago and $721 for the Wounded Warrior Project.

The Mokena School District 159 Board of Education celebrated significant charitable milestones on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, highlighted by a special recognition for Mokena Elementary School (MES) PE teacher Steve Hippleheuser.

Jennifer Gunderson, School Engagement Director for the American Heart Association, attended the meeting to honor Hippleheuser for his 21 years of coordinating the Kids Heart Challenge (formerly Jump Rope for Heart).

“In those two decades, he has helped raise an extraordinary… $527,000,” Gunderson announced to applause. “That’s not just a number. That is thousands of lives touched, educated, and most importantly, lives saved.”

Gunderson noted that MES was the number one fundraising school in Illinois last year, raising a record-breaking $47,697. This year, the school followed up with nearly $44,000 raised. She praised Hippleheuser for creating a “culture of generosity” and incorporating engaging elements like “Pokemon cards” and “Christmas trees decorated with heart heroes” to get students excited about heart health.

The Board also recognized efforts supporting veterans. Staff member Ms. Nyder announced that MES and MJHS combined to raise $3,171 for Honor Flight Chicago.

“We have raised enough money to send almost three veterans to Washington DC for their day of honor,” Nyder said.

Additionally, Heather Green, a special education teacher at Mokena Intermediate School, presented on the school’s Wounded Warrior Project campaign. Through the sale of bracelets, pencils, and stickers, combined with online donations, the student council raised $721. Green noted the project emphasized the “three A’s”: Ask for help, Accept help, and Acknowledge when others need support.