||| FROM ORCAS ISLAND SCHOOL BOARD |||
The School Board would like to extend our thanks to everyone who assisted in yesterday’s school bus accident on Orcas Road.
First, to the children on the Deer Harbor route, thank you for being brave and looking out for one another. To the EMT’s and first responders who helped our bus driver and got him flown off island for medical care and who carefully examined the kids right away then again after adrenaline levels were closer to normal. No kids had to be hospitalized but they did incur bruising and bumps and were understandably shaken. To all of the parents who waited patiently for news while the EMTs and staff made the welfare of the driver and the kids the number one priority. We know that was challenging and your understanding goes a long way.
To superintendent Webb for being on the scene to assist and for the work he did through the night to make sure staff had check-ins with parents, kids, and our bus driver’s family yesterday and today and for organizing counselors (thank you principals and counseling team!) on hand today for all students. Parents, the school has also sent an update with more helpful details out through ‘school messenger’. If you or anyone you know needs help related to the accident, please reach out to our principals or call 360-376-2284.
To councilperson Cindy Wolf and Deer Harbor residents for checking in, helping from their side, and extending future assistance. And, lastly to the islanders who pulled aside to help when they came upon the situation and who are working today to help the kids and school make a tough situation better.
It’s times like these when we feel lucky to be in a close-knit community who cares.
Thank you so much for this update and details about the immediate and on-going support of the kids and the driver. Thank you for the photo. I’m so proud of the way this community can function when pitched a big curve.