As part of ongoing efforts to keep students and staff safe, Knox County Public Schools (KCPS) has taken an important step toward overdose preparedness. While working to replace outdated naloxone in the NaloxBoxes located throughout KCPS buildings, a Board of Education member asked if any other locations might need naloxone. Superintendent Jeremy Ledford recommended that each school bus also be equipped with a kit to ensure immediate accessibility in an emergency.
Following this request, the Knox County Health Department (KCHD) provided Overdose Response Kits for every KCPS transportation vehicle. KCHD was able to supply these kits thanks to funding, and Naloxone was provided through local, state, and federal programs that support public health and safety initiatives across the county.
Bus drivers and monitors recently completed training on recognizing the signs of an overdose and administering Naloxone if needed. Each bus has been equipped with an Overdose Response Kit, adding another layer of safety for students and staff.
Accidental overdoses can occur unexpectedly, but naloxone offers a fast-acting and effective way to reverse the effects while awaiting emergency services. “We hope our schools never have to use these kits,” said Ledford, “but being prepared could save a life. Schools everywhere are becoming frontline responders in the fight against overdose, and we want to be ready should the need arise.”
“Having Naloxone on hand is a lifesaving intervention that can easily be administered before emergency services arrive,” said Rebecca Rains, with the KCHD. “We hope that Knox County Public Schools never have to utilize Naloxone. However, schools nationwide are becoming a front line for overdose response, so we recognize that there is an increased need to be prepared in case an overdose occurs.”