In an effort to promote cardiovascular health among educators, the American Heart Association (AHA) has launched a new initiative titled Heart Health Is Essential, aimed at improving health outcomes in the Greater Hartford area. As part of the program, 45 public schools across the district have received blood pressure monitoring stations to encourage regular health checks among staff.
The initiative, which officially launched on May 16, 2025, provides each participating school with a blood pressure monitoring kit and a set of educational resources. The goal is to increase awareness around hypertension and empower school staff to take charge of their own heart health through self-monitoring.
Each health station includes an easy-to-use blood pressure cuff designated for staff use, along with instructional videos and science-backed materials explaining the importance of managing cardiovascular risk factors.
“By establishing these health centers and providing self-monitoring stations, we’re working together to create a healthier environment for educators—and ultimately, for the students they serve,” said Adria Giordano, Executive Director for the American Heart Association in Connecticut. “The AHA remains committed to improving the health of Hartford and looks forward to meaningful progress in achieving health equity and reducing the risk of heart disease.”
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, affects nearly half of U.S. adults and is a major contributor to heart disease. In Connecticut, approximately 30% of adults have been diagnosed with high blood pressure. However, many people are unaware they have it, as it often presents without symptoms. Regular monitoring is the only reliable method for detection, and discussing readings with a healthcare provider is essential for determining the best course of treatment.
“Providing these tools on school campuses helps make healthcare more accessible and supports a broader culture of wellness within Hartford Public Schools,” said Lynette Coleman, AHA Vice President of Community Impact. “These centers can play a vital role in building a healthier, more resilient workforce and will also give school nurses and administrators the resources they need to support their colleagues.”
According to the National Council on Teacher Quality, 65% of Hartford Public Schools’ teachers are women. In Connecticut, nearly 30% of women report having high blood pressure, and 60% of strokes occur in women. Alarmingly, the average age of stroke onset is decreasing among Black and Hispanic women. Hartford Public Schools employs more than 3,000 staff, including teachers, administrators, and support personnel, serving over 16,500 students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12 across its 45 campuses.
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