South Windsor High School’s first aid/CPR class is quite unique compared to most other classes. The class is offered to students from grades 10-12 and gives them an opportunity to get CPR certified at the end of the course.

They use mannequins to simulate real life emergency situations that happen every day, usually heart attacks.

Students have many different reasons for taking this class, such as senior Allyson Benblatt, who is currently enrolled in the class to earn a health credit. She also likes that students are able to get CPR certified in this course.

At the end of the class, students can pay $25 to take a CPR certification test. This test covers everything they already learned about in the class, and is almost like a final for them. This test, if they pass, grants them a CPR certification paper which states that they are fully trained in CPR and know how to use and operate an AED. 

Ms. Sue Fox, the CPR teacher, greatly enjoys teaching the class. She says that her favorite part of the class is “watching the transformation in students. They start out feeling a bit nervous or unsure, and by the end of the class, they’ve gained confidence and a sense of empowerment. It’s incredibly rewarding to see them realize that they have the potential to save a life. Basic Life Support is my favorite class to teach because it covers vital skills that everyone should know.”

Fox believes that the hands-on practice really helps students to learn and remember the information. They get to simulate CPR on the adult mannequins, but also child and infant ones. They learn how to use the AED and a BVM (bag valve mask, a device used to cover the mouth of the person receiving CPR). They learn how to perform CPR both in situations where they are alone with the person in need of help and when they are in a group setting.

“We use mannequins to simulate real-life scenarios, and it’s always great to see students working together, practicing chest compressions, and using the AED. It makes the learning experience so much more engaging,” Fox stated. She likes group work because it allows people to cooperate under stressful situations, and work together in times of need with people they might not know. 

To anyone even thinking about taking this class, Fox says “I highly encourage you to do it. CPR is a valuable skill that can make a real difference in an emergency situation. It’s not just about learning the techniques, it’s about building the confidence to react to an emergency. You’ll leave this class feeling prepared and empowered.”