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Volunteer outlines Every 15 Minutes simulation for College Park High students
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Summary
Annie LeClaire told Pleasant Hill council the Every 15 Minutes program brings a two‑day, multi‑agency simulated crash and memorial to campus to teach juniors and seniors about impaired and distracted driving; students can opt out with parental notification.
Pleasant Hill — Annie LeClaire, a Mount Diablo School District employee and parent volunteer, briefed the City Council on Every 15 Minutes, a two‑day immersive program scheduled this week at College Park High School that uses a simulated crash, first‑responder demonstrations and memorial elements to convey the consequences of impaired and distracted driving.
LeClaire said the program began in California in 2000 and relies on multi‑agency support including the California Highway Patrol, fire and medical responders, local law enforcement, the county coroner, and school staff. The exercise has students act out crash victims, stage a simulated response with donated vehicles and equipment, and hold a memorial with obituaries and a PA ‘heartbeat’ announcement intended to emphasize how decisions can be fatal.
“Not just a program. It’s a promise to our youth,” LeClaire said, adding that parents of juniors and seniors are notified in advance and students may opt out and wait in a designated location if they choose not to attend the assembly. Council members praised the program and asked about post‑event surveys and supports for students who may experience trauma; LeClaire said she will follow up with previous coordinators about survey practices and noted the program provides a retreat and memorial speakers who are loved ones of crash victims.
The council and attendees were invited to the event and thanked the volunteers and participating agencies for their coordination.
Sources: Presentation by Annie LeClaire; council questions during March 16 meeting.
