After much uproar, a controversial 9-1-1 policy at Jamaica High School has been changed.
Originally, deans were allegedly prohibited from calling 9-1-1, and in April, 14-year-old student Mariya Fatima had a stroke while in school. Her parents believe the policy prevented her from getting immediate care. The family has retained the services of lawyer Gary Carlton.
Then, as late as Monday, October 1, teachers and staff were instructed - via memo - to follow four steps before calling 9-1-1 for an emergency.
The steps included reporting emergencies to the school’s nurse, an assistant principal, principal, and notifying the parents.
It even provided for contingencies, and if no nurse was available, teachers were told to report to the nearest assistant principal and the principal. If they could not be reached, the deans’ office becomes responsible for obtaining the medical care.
However, following outrage by City Councilmember James Gennaro and Assemblymember Rory Lancman - as well as parents - Jamaica High School acting Principal Walter Acham is giving the green light for emergency personnel to be called “if an individual requires immediate medical attention.”
“I have faith that the people running our schools are more than capable of determining when an emergency call should be made,” said Lancman. “And if they call 9-1-1 when it’s unnecessary, you know what? It is the safety of our kids. Better safe than sorry.”
City Comptroller William Thompson also expressed outrage at the former policy.
His recent audit revealed that a large number of violent and disruptive incidents go unreported in schools, often to make them seem safer.
Jamaica High School made the city’s “Impact List” of dangerous schools in February.
The Department of Education’s policy is that 9-1-1 should be called for any emergency.
“I’ve made it clear and I’ll continue to make it clear: Anybody dealing with any student who’s injured, your first priority is the student and calling 9-1-1,” said Schools Chancellor Joel Klein in published reports.
With additional reporting by Nick Brown
