Pleasant Hills Middle School Resource Officer Ron Porupsky leads a weekly interest group for students on Wednesdays after school. Each week, Officer Porupsky brings in different presenters that speak and sometimes provide hands-on activities with the students. The intent of interest group is to get the students interested in public service or at least educate them on some of the different career opportunities available to them which may include the police, fire rescue, EMS, military service, etc.
On Wednesday, January 11, 2017, Officer Porupsky organized a CPR and AED training certification with the Baldwin EMS for the middle schoolers. There were over 150 students in grades 6, 7 and 8 attending the presentation. The students were split into small groups led by members of the Baldwin EMS. Students were taught the correct procedures to administer CPR and even encouraged to clap along to the song “Sugar” by Maroon 5 to maintain the correct timing for chest compressions. Baldwin EMS has found that most students know the song and it has the perfect rhythm to help the students apply consistently-paced compressions. Students also had the opportunity to learn how to use the AED equipment. After initial demonstrations, students began to practice on training manikins. According to Officer Porupsky, “This training is a very important skill to have. Although I hope the students never have to use it, if the situation ever arises they will have the skills to save a life.” Click here to view photos of the events.