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Columbia Ridge Teacher Recognized

Four people gathered in front of a paper chain American flag

On Monday, November 13, Ephrata School District leaders paused to recognize the selfless actions of Columbia Ridge Teacher, Chantel Park. Mrs. Park, who is also a volleyball coach at Ephrata Middle School (EMS), was part of a group that assisted motorists involved in a car crash. 

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 our bus was not involved.

Mrs. Park and EMS coaching staff, Whitney Pearce, 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. (Mrs. Park's coaching peers and the team's bus driver were recognized during an assembly at EMS last week.)

The actions of these staff members exemplify the Ephrata School District values of #Service and #Love. We're proud that they're a part of our school and our school district. #TigerPride

 

Four people gathered in front of a paper chain American flag

From Left to Right: Ken Murray, Ephrata School District Assistant Superintendent; Karla Williams, Columbia Ridge Principal; Chantel Park, Columbia Ridge Teacher and EMS Coach; Tim Payne, Ephrata School District Superintendent.