Over the course of several P.E. classes, 9th grade HSA students were guided through instruction on first aid assessment, injuries, medical and environmental emergencies, legal issues and CPR administration.

Students also took part in skills testing.  After being broken in to small groups, each was assigned a particular first aid skill to model for the class - i.e. splinting a broken bone or handling someone suffering from heath exhaustion, to name just a few.  Training mannequins enabled students to test their CPR skills on adults, children and infants.  At the end of the training sessions, each student was required to pass a written test in both areas.

"The best part of this training is knowing I have the skills to help someone if they need it," said Alexis B.  "I was excited to learn these skills. It was fun to practice in groups and on the mannequins.  I watch my baby niece and now I know how to save her life," stated Kemaije F. 

Over 80% of HSA's freshman class received their certification.  The rest will complete their training during the remainder of the school year.  They join the current sophomore class, which was trained last year.

The certification is valid for two years.  Students will be re-certified prior to the start of their internships at the end of their junior year.