Trauma kits, face masks and even a makeshift restroom are all part of one local Eagle Scout Candidate's project. Matthew Cummings says it wouldn't have been possible without the support of one Washoe County Commissioner.Â
Eagle Scout Candidate Matthew Cummings has dedicated the last six months to figure out a way to protect his peers in a potential emergency. Cummings says, "Our education system faces the danger of an armed assailant entering school grounds and posing a threat to students and staff."
For his final scout project, he decided to create lock-down emergency kits to support any crisis situation. Cummings says, "Legislation is being pushed every day in order to combat these attacks, but even a simple measure like this would be able to ensure safety school-wide."
Murat Kurt, Coral Academy of Science High School Dean of Academics says he is proud of Cummings, adding, "We have different levels of lock-downs in the classroom, so sometimes we need to create a safe space for students."
Each of the 30 kits include trauma kits with gauze, tape and antibiotic ointment, guides on what to do in different emergencies, emergency blankets and drinking water, and even a privacy tent to use as a makeshift restroom. Â
The entire project cost around $2,500. Cummings says it wasn't exactly easy to come up with that money. That's when Washoe County Commissioner Vaughn Hartung stepped up. He gave $1,500 to the project, from Washoe County District Funds allocated to nonprofit efforts. Hartung says, "These are our future leaders and we need to support them."
The kits will be delivered to 30 classrooms around Coral Academy of Science High School. While Cummings hopes they never have to be used, he hopes other schools might follow suit.Â
