In September 2010, tragedy struck Covell Elementary with the death of a 5^th grade student during the after-school program hours. When the incident occurred, Miss Dee Dee showed no signs of hesitation or panic. She immediately called 911, began administering CPR, checked for a response, made sure the students were escorted out of the room, and continued CPR until the ambulance arrived. With the ambulance, fire trucks, and other emergency vehicles, it quickly became apparent that this was a serious situation. Miss Dee Dee kept the students as calm as she could and proceeded to get them on the bus home as quickly as possible.

Miss Dee Dee's courage and leadership not only helped the students and staff pull through this life-changing event, but also maintained the program and a sense of routine for the rest of the students in the aftermath. She made herself available every day, both at school and during the after-school program, to assist students and staff with processing their emotions and feelings about what happened. Miss Dee Dee let students know that it was ok to cry and that she was there for them if they needed someone to turn to. Only after ensuring everyone else was taken care of did she then take time for herself to cope with what had happened.

When a traumatic event occurs in a community like the one surrounding Covell Elementary, it is essential for someone like Miss Dee Dee to step up and pull everyone together. This is exactly what she did; she created a family and an environment where students could depend on one another for support.

"Miss Dee Dee's strength and care for others brought together every staff member, student, and parent to help overcome this devastating tragedy," stated AmeriCorps member Megan Hunter. "This is why I believe she should be recognized for her dedication and selfless devotion to the students at Covell Elementary." 

For more information about the Camp Fire USA AmeriCorps program, contact program director, Pam Bland, at pam.bland@campfireusawmc.org  or (616) 949-2500 ext. 30.