As a Spectrum Health Aero Med helicopter descended on the Marshall Elementary schoolyard-turned-landing zone, students were propelled into a morning of learning about emergency first responders.
Wide-eyed kindergarten through fourth-graders pointed upward as the chopper – used for rapid transportation to hospitals – circled the sky with blades whirring. “I’m interested in learning more about what kind of things they have to do, like saving people,” said fourth-grader Madison Law.
Madison got her wish and lots more information about people who work on the front-line of emergencies. Representatives from Michigan State Police Canine Unit, Byron Township/Cutlerville Sheriff’s Department, Life EMS, Byron Township Fire Department and the Kent County Scientific Support Unit opened their vehicles in the school parking lots.
Greg Jackson, dad to fourth-grader Luke, and third-grader Noah, organized the event as a way to expand on a fire safety presentation at Marshall last year. He said he likes to find ways to enhance learning at the school.
“We’re opening students’ eyes and saying, ‘I know you all say you want to be a firefighter, but did you know the fire team has so many different divisions to it and so do the police?’ ” Jackson said. “It’s more than just being in a police car or on a firetruck, it’s doing the science behind it and the logistics.”
Principal John Krajewski said the day was perfect for hands-on learning and creating a connection with the community.
“Going beyond the walls of the classroom and letting students interact with adults who have chosen careers focused on helping brings awareness to the good that these professionals do,” he said. “It also allows our teachers to have a great starting point to begin deeper dialogue about career paths to our students and how you can do good for others as a working professional.”
CONNECT
A Look at the Career of Byron Center’s own School Resource Officer
