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District recognizes heroic on-campus rescue, marks Purple Star and autism awareness
Summary
At its April 8 meeting the board recognized a life-saving incident at Strawberry Crest High School, honored schools and staff for military-child supports and observed Autism Acceptance Month. A Buccaneers-sponsored award singled out students, staff and deputies who responded to a teacher’s medical emergency in February.
The board opened its meeting with several recognitions on April 8 that highlighted student achievement, staff heroism and supports for military-connected students and students on the autism spectrum.
A Buccaneers Best Crew award recognized the quick actions of students, school staff and a deputy after a teacher collapsed in class at Strawberry Crest High School on Feb. 28. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Chief Operating Officer Brian Ford described the sequence: students Robert Herminda and Abigail Alperovitch (students) retrieved help; teachers Angela Parker and Brandice Colburn contacted an AdventHealth coordinator and used building security to request emergency assistance; Master Deputy Pedro Colon initiated CPR; IB coordinator Jamie Ferrero and assistant principal Ryan Gurisco applied an AED shock; EMTs transported the teacher, who later regained consciousness and is reported to be recovering. The Buccaneers, district staff and community leaders gathered to present awards to the group.
Military-connected students and schools: Board members and staff observed April as the Month of the Military Child. Doctor Hahn (board member) and district staff noted that HCPS serves more than 4,000 military-connected families and that 21 schools had already earned Purple Star School distinction; Superintendent Van Ayers said four additional schools had been recognized, bringing the district’s total to 25 Purple Star schools.
Autism month recognition: The board also observed Autism Acceptance Month, noting HCPS serves more than 4,000 students on the autism spectrum and the district’s use of evidence-based practices and early intervention supports.
Also recognized: Plant High School’s brass ensemble provided pre-meeting music; principals and assistant principals received nods; and several student and teacher honors were announced, including robotics program advances headed to a national competition.
No formal action was required for the recognitions; the board used the time for community acknowledgement.
