Incident Letter for Parents and Students
Wednesday, October 7th, 2009>гардеробиOctober 7, 2009
Dear Parents and Students:
Today a student at our school had a medical emergency related to “The Choking Game”. Although the specifics of what happened are still under investigation, this behavior did result in the student losing consciousness and hitting his head. Emergency responders were called to the scene and we set the school in a “Secure-in-Place” emergency status.
The young man was evaluated and appears to be healthy. At this time, we expect him to make a full recovery. We have high praise for our East Jefferson Fire & Rescue with their quick response and support.
A “Secure-in-Place” is called when we need to buy time. This particular incident happened very near the end of 3rd period. When I determined we needed to call 9-1-1, I called the “Secure-in-Place” so that all kids would stay in 3rd period as opposed to moving into the halls or on to Eagle Time. There was no threat to any student or the school, we just needed time and privacy for the student with the emergency. All students remained with their 3rd period teachers until 11:00, at which time students were dismissed on time for lunch. By that time, we had determined the injured student was safe and healthy.
I visited all classrooms after lunch to talk about the dangers of the choking game. When I asked the kids if they have heard of it, well over half the students raised their hands. This dangerous game involves cutting off blood flow and/or oxygen to the brain by intentionally choking (with hands, arms, or other devices) in order to make the kids “pass out”. When the blood and oxygen starts flowing again, kids come-to and experience a head rush of lightheadedness. This “high” is often the purpose of the game.
Please talk with your students about the dangers of such behavior. There are many online resources available to support you, or you are welcome to call any administrator or counselor for support. This was a frightening, potentially life-threatening situation that gives us a perfect opportunity to learn from others’ mistakes.
Sincerely,
Whitney E. Meissner, Ed.D.
Principal