Ritenour Schools celebrate successful holiday food drive and life-saving intervention

The Ritenour School District Board of Education meeting on December 12, 2024, highlighted a remarkable act of heroism that saved a life during a medical emergency at Kratz Elementary School. During the meeting, Superintendent Dr. Kilbride recognized Armez Coulter and Mark Packet for their quick actions on November 20, when a staff member, Reggie, lost consciousness and stopped breathing during a fourth-grade program.

Coulter, a district supervisor, immediately called 911 and provided support while CPR was administered. Packet, the program director at the Mid County Family YMCA, retrieved the AED defibrillator, which was crucial in restoring Reggie's breathing. Their teamwork and swift response were pivotal in what could have been a tragic outcome. Reggie is now recovering well, thanks to their efforts.

Dr. Kilbride emphasized the significance of this incident, noting it was the first time an AED had been used in the district's history. The board members expressed their gratitude with a standing ovation for Coulter and Packet, acknowledging their dedication and readiness to act in a crisis.

In addition to this heroic recognition, the meeting also covered the successful Rickener holiday food drive, which collected nearly 3.5 tons of food and personal care items, showcasing the community's spirit of giving. The board reminded residents that the candidate filing period for the upcoming Board of Education election is open until December 31, with two positions available.

The meeting underscored the importance of community support and preparedness in schools, leaving attendees with a sense of pride in their district's commitment to safety and service.