This past November Jeffers Elementary earned two statewide awards: Michigan HEARTSafe School from MHSAA and Blue Ribbon School from the Michigan Department of Education. Both of these awards are a proud achievement for Spring Lake Schools.
A HEARTSafe School is known to have readiness to respond to cardiac emergencies, immediately and efficiently. This award was reachable after a community effort working with Project ADAM (Automated Defibrillators in Adam’s Memory). Staff went through training, planning, and review of protecting students and staff. Staff worked hard to improve their emergency readiness skills and 143 staff members across the district are now CPR certified, with more still training. School officials say the award supports the idea that Jeffers cares for their students not only academically, but physically.
A Blue Ribbon School is a symbol of excellence that awards academic achievements and progress. Jeffers is recognized for their excellent education strategies and supportive learning environments for students and staff, allowing them to reach their full potential. This award celebrates students dedication, teamwork, and years of focus and effort on student success.
“Both recognitions are important and humbling. They are a direct result of the support and efforts of those who prioritize the children at Jeffers, including our hard working staff and supportive families,” says Jeffers Elementary Principle, Kris Dewitt.
Jeffers is very excited about both of these awards, hallways are filled with smiles and joy by both students and staff. The elementary school celebrated with a schoolwide gathering with blue confetti poppers to recognize the students’ part in earning these recognitions.
Jeffers was among 16 schools to receive the Blue Ribbon designation this year, joining more than 200 in Michigan. It also joins nearly 400 new HEARTSafe schools in the recent cohort and joins the ranks of nearly 1,000 across the state.
