Vancouver School Board Commits $250,000 for AEDs in Schools Thanks to Advocacy

Following the tragic death of a high school student in the Vancouver School Board (VSB) and the VSB’s initial refusal to accept an AED donation after the incident, a group called Students for AEDs was formed to advocate for AEDs in every VSB school. This proposal was met with significant resistance, but the Students for AEDs group didn’t give up. They continued their advocacy through the media, with the full support of Vancouver DPAC’s Health & Safety Working Group (HSWG).
HSWG collaborated with Students for AEDs to:
- Raise awareness about the lack of AEDs in schools and the dangers this posed.
- Write letters of support for Students for AEDs and the ‘AED in every school’ policy.
We are thrilled to announce that after a meeting with the Premier, discussions are back on track with the VSB to accept AED donations (with the clarification requested now resolved in favor of accepting donations!). The VSB is also actively working on budgeting for AEDs in all schools, and it has just been announced that $250,000 has been allocated for AEDs in Vancouver schools by 2025. Incredible!
Way to go, Students for AEDs!
One key lesson from this successful advocacy is the power of student involvement. When students lead the charge, it’s easier to get the attention of the media, the VSB, and politicians, making them more willing to engage in important discussions. This student-driven energy has real power, and it’s something HSWG continues to support.
As another example, last year, students at Gladstone Secondary spearheaded the creation of a Clean Air Festival, tied to their science lessons, which sparked important conversations about indoor air quality across the school. With help from teachers and HSWG, students not only raised awareness but activated both the student body and staff. We hope to see this initiative replicated at other schools.
Get Involved
- Health & Safety Working Group (HSWG): hswg@vancouverdpac.org
- Students for AEDs: franco.ks.ng@gmail.com
To make a donation and receive a tax receipt, please visit:
Donate to Students for AEDs
Thank you to everyone who has supported this life-saving initiative. Let’s continue to work together to ensure AEDs are in every Vancouver school by 2025!
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