Washougal High students earn CPR, first aid certifications

Washougal — Before graduating from high school, Washington students learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation and use of automated external defibrillators in health class. Washougal High School students took those lessons a step further and received their CPR and first aid certifications. The school surveyed students to see how many were interested in getting certified, and found more than half were interested. The school worked with local businesses, and Dale King, outreach director of Columbia Ridge Senior Living, helped organize an effort to pay for the certifications. Columbia Ridge, Lacamas Medical Group and American Medical Response donated the money. “Our hope is that this certification will help students when looking for jobs,” Margaret Rice, Washougal School District career and technical education director, said in a release. “It’s something many employers look for and are important skills to have, not to mention a nice add to their résumé. We are thrilled to assist students in learning these skills and earning this credential.”