Over the summer, Richardson ISD trustees recognized the White Rock Fireflies with their “Say Something” award, given to students and employees who “demonstrate outstanding character in identifying an issue in their school or community and chose to take action to resolve it.” The sixth graders recommended changes after a dad at one of their softball games was saved by fellow parents using CPR.
You can read the dramatic full story here.
After the medical emergency, Firefly mom and WRE school counselor Brittany Code helped girls on the team write letters to the SVAA expressing how frightened and helpless they felt. They suggested improvements to safety, and several were implemented.
“They weren’t sure what was happening at the time, but these girls need to be commended for staying so composed and calm during the whole thing,” said WRE Principal Becky Stevens, who presented certificates and medals to the Fireflies Thursday at a PTA meeting on behalf of RISD. “Since this incident took place, the SVAA began offering CPR training to coaches and officials and established a list of playing sites with permanent AEDs onsite. That’s very important and a very big deal – turning something really hard and sad into something that’s making a positive impact in our community. I know a ton of our kids play SVAA sports, and you just never know when something like this can happen.”
Mark Gray, the Firefly father saved by quick-thinking parents, was on hand to see his daughter, Landry, and her teammates be recognized.
“Congratulations on this award,” said PTA President Sarah Hefton. “We are very proud of how brave you are and the way you were called to action. We are thankful for your families, and we are thankful that Mr. Gray is still with us today.”
If you’d like to nominate a student, you’ll find the nomination form here. You may nominate an RISD employee here.