As a high school teacher and CPR instructor, this topic is near and dear to my heart. I believe in the potential and capability of our young people to do great and amazing things including saving lives.

Every year, more than 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of hospitals in the United States. When such emergencies strike, time is critical. The difference between life and death often hinges on whether a bystander can step in and perform Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). Imagine the lives that could be saved if every high school student graduated with this essential skill.

In this blog, we’ll explore the compelling reasons CPR training belongs in high schools, the impact it could have on communities, and how to advocate for its inclusion in education systems nationwide.

Why High Schools?

High school is the perfect time to teach CPR for several key reasons:

1. Early Exposure Builds Confidence

Introducing CPR at a young age helps students overcome the fear of intervening during emergencies. With hands-on practice and proper instruction, teens gain confidence to act decisively in life-threatening situations.

2. Empowering the Next Generation of First Responders

High school students are frequently present in public spaces like parks, malls, and sports arenas where emergencies are common. By training these students, we equip communities with more potential lifesavers.

3. A Skill for Life

CPR training is not just a high school requirement—it’s a lifelong skill. Whether at home, work, or in public, these students can carry this knowledge with them throughout adulthood, creating a ripple effect of preparedness.

The Impact of CPR Training in High Schools

The statistics speak for themselves:

- Immediate CPR can double or triple the chances of survival during cardiac arrest.

- Yet, less than 40% of bystanders provide CPR when needed.

By making CPR training a part of the high school curriculum, we can dramatically increase the number of bystanders prepared to act. States like Texas and New York already require students to learn CPR before graduation, and the results are promising. Communities are becoming safer, and lives are being saved.

Breaking Down Barriers

Some schools hesitate to implement CPR training due to perceived challenges, such as:

-Cost of Equipment: CPR manikins and training materials may seem expensive, but partnerships with organizations like the American Heart Association can make programs more affordable.

-Time Constraints: CPR training requires only a few hours and can easily fit into physical education, health classes, or dedicated workshop days.

- Instructor Availability: Many community health organizations and local first responders offer free or low-cost instruction.

Real Stories, Real Impact

Consider Derranea Wilford, a 19-year-old who became CPR-certified while in high school. After a shooting during a festival, several onlookers captured her performing CPR on a young lady. She bravely decided to put what she learned into action and recovered a pulse of a 17 yo girl who was gunned down in New Orleans. Unfortunately, the young lady later died. However, Wilford's bravery and compassion to act on what she'd learned is noteworthy. In her words, “I felt a pulse. I heard her heartbeat. That’s somebody’s child. I saw myself in her.

Advocating for Change

If your school or community hasn’t adopted CPR training, here’s how you can make a difference:

- Start the Conversation: Speak with school administrators about the benefits of CPR training. Share success stories and data to build a compelling case.

- Partner with Organizations: Work with local hospitals, fire departments, or nonprofits like the American Heart Association to bring programs to your school.

- Engage Lawmakers: Advocate for statewide legislation requiring CPR training as part of graduation requirements.

A Ripple Effect of Preparedness

When high schools prioritize CPR training, they don’t just create better-prepared individuals; they create stronger communities. Every student trained in CPR is a potential hero, capable of saving lives and inspiring others to do the same.

It’s time to make CPR training as fundamental as math or science in our schools. Because no one should feel powerless in an emergency—and every student deserves the chance to be someone’s lifesaver.

What You Can Do Today

- Check if your local schools offer CPR training. If not, start advocating for its inclusion.

- Learn CPR yourself and encourage family members to do the same.

- Support organizations working to make CPR accessible to everyone.

Together, we can build a future where saving lives is a skill everyone has—starting with our high schools.

If you are interested in getting your high schooler, youth organization CPR trained contact us at (985) 247-8560 or [email protected]. Remember, It Takes Courage To Save A Life...Including Your Own!