Coaches and bus driver recognized for assisting with car crash
From left: Assistant Superintendent Ken Murray, EMS Volleyball Coach Brian Forester, EMS Volleyball Coach Courtney Bronowski, Bus Driver Lavona Buchert, School Board Director Anita Waller, Superintendent Tim Payne and EMS principal Tina Mullings. Not Pictured: EMS Volleyball Coaches Whitney Pearce and Chantel Park.
Courtesy photo/Ephrata School District
EPHRATA — Ephrata School District leaders paused Monday to recognize the selfless actions of four Ephrata Middle School volleyball coaches and an Ephrata school bus driver.
Earlier this fall, an Ephrata School District bus was stopped for construction in East Wenatchee on the way home from a middle school volleyball game. A car approaching the construction scene did not stop and caused a rear-end collision that impacted three additional cars behind the bus. Thankfully, the bus was not involved.
EMS coaching staff Whitney Pearce, Chantel Park, Courtney Bronowski and Brian Forster immediately jumped into action, grabbed emergency kits from the bus and began administering first aid until ambulances arrived. Bus driver Lavona Buchert helped to keep all 50 students safe and calm despite the chaotic scene behind the bus.
"Not only did these individuals act in service to others, but they also provided the students on that bus with an amazing example of what being a good human looks like," said ESD Superintendent Tim Payne. "I am extremely proud to recognize this group."
The actions of these staff members exemplified the Ephrata School District values of service and love.
Sarah Morford is the director of communications for the Ephrata School District.