School Committee members began Tuesday's meeting by acknowledging several educators from Washington Oak School for their quick thinking that ultimately saved the life of a student on the morning of Jan. 10.
School Nurse-Teacher Diane Kowal, Special Education Teacher Lou Turchetta, one-on-one classroom nurse/R.N. Tammy Begones and Occupational Therapist Bethany Horne were recognized for providing emergency medical care and treatment to a first grade student who went into respiratory arrest after getting off the school bus that morning.
A letter from the student's parents to Superintendent Michael Almeida was presented at the meeting that began; "I am writing this letter to you on behalf of myself and my family for the gratitude, appreciation and undeniable thanks to a few members of the Washington Oak Elementary School staff for saving my son's life."
The letter explains how the faculty and staff promptly utilized oxygen and a ventilator until Central Coventry Fire responders arrived on scene and goes on to thank the four individuals as well as anyone else that may have assisted that day.
"In my mind, these people are recognized as heroes and forever our deepest gratitude and heartfelt thanks will be given to them," the letter concluded.
Principal Acknowledgment
During Michael Almeida's Superintendent's Report, Blackrock Elementary School Principal Alicia Castle was recognized for being recently nominated by the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) to be part of a 21-member Commission to assess the educational needs of children with reading disabilities and dyslexia.
Wellness Committee Update
District Wellness Committee Chairperson Joe Lucian presented an annual report on the Committee's work, initiatives and plans. He expressed the intention of the Committee to further engage not only Coventry students, but district staff as well through the continued implementation of Wellness Week in schools (May 20-24), distribution of the quarterly Wellness e-newsletter, and organization of staff wellness activities sponsored by the district and Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Lucian's report also pointed out the Committee's decision to move Wellness Meetings to Coventry High School in order to engage and promote further student participation. It also highlighted the collaboration between Aramark Food Services and Coventry middle, high school and culinary students in order to discuss future food improvements, healthier meals and the use of locally grown products.
Click here to view the Winter 2013 edition of the Coventry Health & Wellness Newsletter.