Quick thinking, on-the-job experience, and kind hearts describe Forest Park staff members who took immediate action to help a student during an apparent medical emergency.
Forest Park teacher Ms. Sitterly, physical education teacher Coach Massaconi, and her colleague, Coach Martin, all jumped into action and provided a child with the support needed after the student fell during PE class. South Colonie District Nurse Coordinator Mary Downey joined in with Principal Penn to help before emergency personnel arrived onsite.
On Monday, Dec. 5 Forest Park Principal Jill Penn and Superintendent Dr. David Perry recognized and honored the staff by surprising them with breakfast.
“One of the biggest takeaways from the incident that occurred was that the rest of the students were not impacted because our staff members remained calm and modeled the procedures that are outlined when a situation like this occurs,” said Principal Penn.
“In the face of an emergency, if our staff show the students that they are in control and remain calm the students feel safe and do not get scared and that is exactly what happened in this situation,” Penn added.
The staff members felt appreciated when Principal Penn and Superintendent Perry recognized their efforts and acts of kindness towards the student.
“We have a dynamic staff here at Forest Park, said Sitterly. “It was nice to come together following an unfortunate incident to remind ourselves of how as educators we are indeed in a position to put our students’ needs first while remaining calm, cool, and collected. The breakfast was a surprisingly kind and supportive way to feel valued and recognized. We are truly grateful to be Forest Park Falcons.”