“…we aim to build a resilient community capable of effectively responding to emergencies”
From Genesee Valley Central School, picture from the American Red Cross
Genesee Valley Central School (GVCSD) has received funding from the Appalachian Regional Commission’s Area Development Grant Program to support the implementation of an Emergency Medical Responder training program. In collaboration with the Wellsville Central School District, GVCSD will spearhead efforts to enhance emergency medical response capabilities throughout the county.
Together, the two districts will leverage resources, leadership, and community partnerships to offer certification courses in emergency medical response, diving, master diving, and firefighter training.
Key priorities of the project include:
- Engaging teachers in certification coursework for emergency medical response and dive instruction
- Offering an introductory dive course to students
- Offering courses to certify students and community members for CPR, emergency medical response, search and rescue diving, lifeguarding, and firefighting positions.
- Developing a feeder program for local fire companies
“Our goal is to equip our students and community members with the knowledge and skills needed to address critical gaps in emergency response within Allegany County,” said Dr. Brian Schmitt, Superintendent at Genesee Valley. “By offering a series of learning tracks and engaging local instructors, we aim to build a resilient community capable of effectively responding to emergencies and safeguarding lives.”
Additional grant funds will be used to purchase equipment and supplies that will outfit a mobile classroom. Funds will further support the start-up of a junior firefighter corps, including the purchase of needed fire safety equipment and durable goods that will serve the program. Finally, funds have been allocated to purchase a LifePak Volunteer Ambulance LP -15 monitor that will allow Wellsville Volunteer Ambulance Corp to put an additional emergency response vehicle in service that will accommodate student ride alongs as well in-class trainings.
The Emergency Medical Responder program is key to GVCSD’s ongoing efforts as a Full Service Community School to promote education, health, and community involvement. For more information, contact Dr. Brian Schmitt at bschmitt@genvalley.org or 585-268-7900.
