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As their final project for first semester, students in Alora Whitehead’s Health Science class chose to instruct their peers at the Kevin Dukes Career and Innovation Academy on some important topics. These students elected to train and educate all KDCIA students in all shops on CPR/AED and First Aid.
Whitehead explained that she and her students started brainstorming ideas for their final project back at the beginning of the semester in August. “We collectively decided on this project as it would impact their peers in a positive way,” explained Whitehead. Her students worked all semester completing research on topics they were not as familiar with such as the narcan/opioid topic. They refreshed themselves in other areas such as CPR and First Aid.
As part of their preparation for their presentations to fellow students, they perfected brochures and presentations. These were turned in for a grade. They brainstormed ways to interact with peers and practiced their presentations. “This group of kids worked so well together and overcame some fears such as speaking in front of their peers and taught them some along the way,” added Whitehead.
This group of students excitedly taught their peers in HVAC, Masonry, Fire Science, Teaching, Cosmetology, Electrical, Construction, Diesel, Machining, Drafting, and Culinary. They also taught the students in the transition class. They were well received by their peers.
“I am so proud of them and all they accomplished,” said Whitehead.
“I hope to implement this yearly into my class. Our administrations and staff loved the presentations and were very impressed with my students and their knowledge.”
With the success of this community project by these KDCIA students, there are many people to help out should an emergency arise. Those AED (Automated External Defibrillator) machines in glass cases on the wall have taken on a new meaning to the students. These machines are designed for pubic use and are used to treat sudden cardiac arrest by delivering an electric shock to restore a normal heart rhythm. Correct usage of this machine can significantly increase survival chances by acting fast when every second counts.
