Students in Mars Area High School’s Health Education 9 classes will soon be trained in CPR and First Aid using brand new equipment.

The equipment, including AED trainers, a full-body mannequin, adult and child CPR mannequins and additional accessories, was purchased through a $7,000 Mars Planet Foundation Teaching Enrichment. As part of their Health Education 9 class, a required course for all freshmen, students are trained in Adult CPR/AED, Pediatric CPR and First Aid and have the option to complete the American Heart Association certification for each.

The new equipment will aid CPR trainees in learning how to perform life-saving techniques correctly, increasing their confidence and ability in real-life situations, says Rich Schoeffel, health & physical education teacher. In addition, the equipment will enable the school’s program to better align with the latest industry standards and innovations in CPR training.

“Upgrading to advanced CPR feedback mannequins will enhance the quality of our CPR training programs, ensuring that participants receive the most accurate, real-time feedback to improve their skills,” says Schoeffel, noting that he and the health & physical education staff are greatful for the foundation’s contribution. “This will ultimately contribute to more effective life-saving interventions in emergency situations.”

The goal of Mars Area High School’s Health Education 9 is to motivate students to lead healthy lives through an understanding of health concepts and influences, communicating with others, making decisions, setting goals, practicing health-positive behaviors, and advocating for health.

For more information, call (724) 625-1581.