[HSGuardian] Tomorrow's Mock Car Accident Assembly @ PCHS

['Julia McBride' via HS Guardian]

PCHS Community,

Tomorrow, April 30, our students will participate in a simulated impaired driving incident in Pirate Stadium, developed in partnership with local police, fire, and EMS personnel. This experience is intentionally scheduled during prom season to reinforce the importance of safe decision-making.

The demonstration will be highly realistic and will include student actors, first responders, and a portrayal of emergency procedures such as vehicle extrication, medical response, and the legal consequences for the driver. It will also include the depiction of serious injuries and a fatality. In addition, guest speaker David Easterbrook from The Foundation of Ashley’s Dream will share a personal message about the real-life impact of impaired driving.

Because of the realistic nature of this event, we recognize that some students may experience strong emotional reactions. Prior to the simulation, teachers will prepare students by explaining what they will see, setting expectations for respectful behavior, and reminding them that it is okay to feel a range of emotions. Students will also be told how to access support if they begin to feel overwhelmed.

Following the event, teachers will guide students through reflection and discussion to help them process the experience and reinforce the key message about the consequences of impaired and distracted driving. Our counseling team will be available throughout the day for any student who may need additional support.

If a parent or guardian prefers that their student not attend, the student may report to the Counseling Office for the duration of the event without consequence.

Our goal is to approach this experience with care and purpose, helping students better understand how the choices they make can impact not only their own lives, but the lives of others.

Here are some additional details: 

Schedule: 

The assembly will run from 9:10-10:40am. We will follow the same schedule we run for the NWEA assessment. (screenshot attached)

Weather:

We are monitoring the weather for rain and cold, and will move the assembly indoors if needed. It will be chilly, so please tell your student to dress accordingly.

Student Support Available:

We recognize that there are individuals who will be particularly emotional as it relates to tomorrow's assembly and its message, especially those who have suffered losses. If a student finds themselves needing additional support, they should reach out to an adult in attendance. This could be any administrator, teacher, or anyone from the Counseling Office. We are here to help and to support! While it is emotional, it is an important message for students to hear.

Expectations:

The expectations for tomorrow's assembly are pretty straightforward. We expect students to leave their phones in classroom caddies, pay attention to the message, and be respectful of the people donating their time to put the assembly on as well as their classmates.

Please let us know if you have any questions.

Thank you,

Julia McBride

Principal, Pinckney Community High School

10255 Dexter-Pinckney Rd, Pinckney, MI 48169

810-225-5500