(Ohio) December 9, 2024 - 500 schools in Ohio will receive CPR training equipment at no cost to the school. This collaboration between the American Heart Association and the Ohio Department of Education is grant-funded and is to provide schools with the CPR training equipment needed to fulfill the state curriculum requirements on CPR.

In addition to the materials at no cost, the Association is also providing educators with a brief facilitator training session designed to show educators what is in the CPR in Schools Kit, how to implement the provided curriculum, and how to document that each student has received their lesson in accordance with the state requirements. This training is offered virtually, in person, or On-Demand videos.

Ohio law requires each public school that offers grades 9-12 to provide instruction in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of automated external defibrillators (AED) to all students.

All public high schools in Ohio are entitled to receive equipment that will provide each campus with CPR in Schools Training Kit, age-appropriate curriculum, and staff kit training. The training has in-person or virtual training options.

"Each year, more than 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of the hospital in the United States," says Amber Higbie, CPR in Schools Program Manager. "CPR is only performed in half of those cases, but we know that CPR can double or triple a person's chance of survival. With 70% of those cardiac arrests happening in the home, it's so important to give students the ability and confidence to save a loved one's life."

To reserve your CPR in Schools Kit, please complete the American Heart Association's Microsoft Form. Resources are grant-funded and are on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public's health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.