Hope Jernigan, a district staff member, told the Columbia County School Board that Magnolia Pediatrics donated 40 LifeVac airway-clearance home kits to the school system and that staff training is scheduled for Oct. 13.

The donation will add one kit to each self-contained ESE classroom in addition to the kits already housed in cafeteria and kitchen areas, Jernigan said. She described the devices as an option for use “in a choking emergency where the Heimlich maneuver has not done enough to clear a person's airway.”

The kits cost “over $2,000,” according to Jernigan, and are intended to help students who struggle with swallowing. “This is significant as we have students who struggle with swallowing and choking can be a common occurrence,” she said. The district plans a training session for all employees on Oct. 13 so staff are prepared to use the devices if needed.

Columbia County School Board members and the superintendent publicly thanked the donors and Magnolia Pediatrics during the meeting. Columbia County School Board member Patricia Giddens asked that the board “please tell Magnolia Pediatrics how much we appreciate them investing in our schools,” and Superintendent Cooley described ongoing safety and facility improvements across the district.

The board did not take a formal vote related to the donation; the item was presented as a public recognition and update.

Ed and Stacy Serrantes of Magnolia Pediatrics were recognized by the district for the donation and the board expressed appreciation for community partners who support school safety and student health.