The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) awarded 360 schools the MI HEARTSafe designation for preparing for cardiac emergencies, during a ceremony at the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) in East Lansing.
All four Chelsea School District schools hold the MI HEARTSafe designation: Chelsea High School, Beach Middle School, South Meadows Elementary, and North Creek Elementary. A complete list of designated schools and resources for meeting the criteria is available on the MI HEARTSafe School Award Program page of the Michigan Genetics Resource Center.”
For more than a decade, MDHHS has worked with the Michigan Department of Education, the American Heart Association, the MHSAA, and the Michigan Alliance for Prevention of Sudden Cardiac Death of the Young to recognize schools for their efforts to protect the health and well-being of their communities.
This year’s honorees include 133 first-time recipients. Since the program began in 2013, 1,360 schools have received the honor, and 1,063 currently hold an active designation.
“Michigan’s schools play a crucial role in protecting our children, and the MI HEARTSafe designation reflects a strong, clear commitment to cardiac emergency preparedness,” said Amy Epkey, acting director of MDHHS. “I’m grateful to the educators, coaches and school leaders who ensure trained staff, reliable equipment and practiced plans are in place. These 360 honorees show what it means to put student safety first, and MDHHS is proud to champion their work in creating safe environments where students can learn, play and thrive.”
To receive the designation, schools must meet five criteria:
- Written emergency plan: A cardiac emergency response plan and team capable of responding during school hours, after-school activities, and athletic events.
- AED accessibility: Accessible, properly maintained, and routinely inspected automated external defibrillators (AEDs) with clear directional signage.
- Staff certification: Current CPR/AED certification for at least 10% of total staff, 50% of coaches (including 100% of head coaches), and 100% of physical education teachers.
- Regular drills: Annual cardiac emergency response drills to test preparedness.
- Student screenings: Pre-participation athletic health screenings using the MHSAA-endorsed physical and history form.
“Part of putting Students First is protecting their safety and well-being while they are at school,” said State Superintendent Glenn Maleyko. “It’s important to recognize MI HEARTSafe schools that are prepared for cardiac emergencies, which contributes to progress in achieving Goal 3 in Michigan’s Top 10 Strategic Education Plan, to improve the health, safety and wellness of all learners.”
Maintaining the MI HEARTSafe designation remains a vital priority for fostering safe learning and athletic environments statewide. To support schools seeking designation, MDHHS will host a virtual educational workshop in January 2027. Continuing education credits will be available for attending nurses and school personnel.
Learn more about the MI HEARTSafe Schools program.
