TOANO — The Williamsburg-James City County School division announced Toano Middle School has been officially designated a Heart Safe School through the Project ADAM program.
The Project ADAM program is supported by the Virginia Department of Education and helps schools develop and implement cardiac emergency response plans that can save lives. Toano Middle School is the first school within the division and on the Virginia Peninsula to earn the recognition.
WJCC Schools said achievement reflects its commitment to student safety through preparations including a school-based cardiac emergency response plan, accessible AED equipment, a designated site coordinator and staff trained and ready to respond in the event of a sudden cardiac arrest.
“Sudden cardiac arrest can occur without warning,” said Louisa Johnson, WJCC Schools health services supervisor. “Survival often depends on immediate action, and studies show the best outcomes occur when a normal heart rhythm is restored within the first four minutes from using an AED,” Johnson continued.
The division noted preparing for this designation involved comprehensive training and planning across the school community.
“We’re proud several school nurses in the division are now certified CPR instructors. This is another important step in enhancing a culture of safety in our schools,” said Daniel F. Keever, WJCC Schools superintendent.
