Harvard Westlake Middle School partnered with the National Outdoor Leadership School Wilderness First Aid Training Program to host the annual 9th grade medical officer training. The training began with an online course, preceding the in-person training held at Harvard Westlake Middle School, on Sept 17, 20, and the 21st. The purpose of the training was to mold a select group of students into medical officers, preparing them for the 9th grade retreat to Colorado River, in case of emergencies.
Over the course of several weeks, students learned essential medical response techniques, including CPR, wound care, and managing environmental injuries.
“The training was super in-depth, and we learned all kinds of things like treating hypothermia, burns, gashes, heat strokes and exhaustion, dealing with allergies, and much more!” Chinua Ulmer ’29 said.
While the lessons were comprehensive, the experience also challenged students to think on their feet.
“The training was definitely difficult, especially when we had to imulate various scenarios, with little time to prepare, but looking back at it, the training was great preparation,” Olivia Leung ’29 said.
For many students, the motivation to join extended beyond just learning new skills.
“I joined the program because I wanted to make a difference in my community, which has always appealed to me. I want to do my part to help whenever I can, and not just be a bystander”, Andrew Strang ’29 said.
Students skills were put into use on the river trip as Lulu Brody ’29 wrapped an injured ankle for Dr. Joyner.
