Pleasant Valley High School offers a Lifeguarding class where students have the opportunity to become certified lifeguards. Open to all students who pass a swimming test, the course helps them gain lifesaving skills and broaden their opportunities.
The class is taught by Eric Royer, and students who succeed in his class and pass the American Red Cross test are able to obtain a certification of completion in lifeguarding (including deep water) with CPR/AED for professional rescuers and first aid through the American Red Cross. These are all life-long skills and knowledge that can be used beyond the pool.
Taking the class and getting your certification through PVHS costs the student $50, compared to the $200 dollars it costs to get a certification through the nearest Red Cross class in Rock Island.
At school, the class counts as Physical Education credit, but the certification opens a plethora of part time job opportunities. Certified students are qualified to work as a lifeguard at pools, waterparks and other areas of swimming that require surveillance.
The class prepares students for many different high stakes situations. “Students gain confidence throughout the course as they learn and practice the proper rescue skills. Being a lifeguard is a tremendous responsibility. Students must be prepared to respond with life saving skills at any moment,” said teacher Eric Royer. “I recall one student that had to jump in and save a young swimmer who got out into the deep end of the pool. The student said she didn’t have to think about what to do, she simply remembered her training and responded.”
The class helps PV students achieve their goals and better themselves. “Taking the lifeguarding class gave me the skills and knowledge to handle emergencies inside and outside the pool with confidence. Now I feel prepared to help others if anything unexpected happens, which is a skill that I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life.” Junior Maisie Webb said.
Students who have completed the class continue to apply these successful skills into their personal lives. “These skills can be beneficial not only as a lifeguard but also in students’ personal lives. A Pleasant Valley student that took the Lifeguarding course last year was recently able to respond to a choking emergency and successfully provided care.” said Royer, “This student and her mother were at Chick-Fil-A when a customer began to choke. This student immediately responded by directing someone to call 911, then provided back blows and abdominal thrust. The student was able to get the airway obstruction out and the customer had a full recovery. Local EMT’s congratulated the student when they arrived.”
Stories of success when facing adversity at the hands of PV students who have taken the class are inspiring to hear.
Ultimately, it is an excellent opportunity for students who want to become a lifeguard. This not only enhances their resume but helps them develop valuable skills.
