Pulaski County Schools honors teacher Rachel Wood for lifesaving response to choking incident

During the Pulaski County School Board meeting on December 10, 2024, significant discussions highlighted both commendable actions within the school community and pressing concerns regarding student facilities and resources.

The meeting commenced with a special recognition for Rachel Wood, a pre-K teacher at Riverlawn Elementary School. Wood was honored for her quick response in a life-threatening situation where a three-year-old student was choking on a blackberry. Her calm demeanor and effective first aid saved the child from serious harm, showcasing the critical role educators play in ensuring student safety. This recognition not only celebrated Wood's actions but also emphasized the importance of training staff in emergency response protocols.

Following this commendation, student representative Jeremiah brought forth two key issues affecting the student body. First, he proposed the installation of an ATM or change deposit at the Cougar Den, the school’s store, to accommodate students who primarily use debit cards instead of cash. This suggestion reflects a growing trend among students and aims to enhance accessibility to school resources.

Jeremiah also raised concerns about inconsistent temperature control in classrooms, particularly in the science pod, where students have reported discomfort due to extreme temperature variations. He suggested the installation of ceiling fans to improve air circulation, which could help maintain a conducive learning environment. The board acknowledged these concerns and indicated that they would be directed to the appropriate departments for further consideration.

In public comments, AJ Schrantz, an assistant coach and spouse of a teacher, advocated for designated parking spaces for expectant mothers at school facilities. He argued that this initiative would improve accessibility for pregnant employees and visitors, thereby enhancing the overall image of Pulaski County Public Schools. Schrantz proposed two options for implementation, emphasizing the potential positive impact on the community.

The meeting also included a contentious moment when a citizen, Tony Bruce, attempted to address the board regarding an investigation into a staff member. The board reiterated that the investigation had concluded with no basis for the claims made, and they would not revisit the matter. This exchange highlighted the challenges school boards face in managing public discourse while adhering to procedural guidelines.

Overall, the meeting underscored the school board's commitment to recognizing exemplary service within the community while also addressing the evolving needs of students and staff. The discussions on resource accessibility and facility improvements are expected to continue in future meetings, as the board seeks to enhance the educational environment in Pulaski County.