Henrico County Public Schools announced on May 6 that every elementary, middle, and high school in the division has earned a Project ADAM Heart Safe School Designation through the Children’s Hospital of Richmond at Virginia Commonwealth University. This makes Henrico County Public Schools the largest division in Virginia to fully meet Project ADAM’s requirements for cardiac emergency response.
The recognition highlights efforts by school nurses, administrators, and staff to ensure readiness for cardiac emergencies. The initiative aims to make schools safer by preparing them to respond effectively if a student or staff member experiences sudden cardiac arrest.
Dr. John R. Phillips, pediatric cardiologist at the Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU and medical director of the Virginia affiliate of Project ADAM, said, “What an amazing feat for a county as large as Henrico to take on the task of ensuring that every campus in Henrico is a healthier and safer place for our children and neighbors to congregate. Henrico is a beautiful example of how a community can come together for the good of all.”
Project ADAM requires schools seeking heart-safe status to have automated external defibrillators (AEDs) with clear signage; designated cardiac emergency response teams; regular training for staff; identified CPR-AED site coordinators; written response plans practiced through drills; and collaboration with local emergency services. The Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU became Virginia’s first Project ADAM affiliate in 2022 and has since helped guide schools on preparedness steps.
In spring 2024, three schools—Henrico High School, Elko Middle School, and Gayton Elementary School—were first recognized by Project ADAM. By 2025-26, all remaining elementary and middle schools completed required training following previous recognitions for other high schools.
Henrico County Public Schools provides educational services throughout Henrico County adjacent to Richmond under Superintendent Amy Cashwell and emphasizes positive learning experiences supported by dedicated staff members according to the official website.
Project leaders encourage those interested in learning more about heart-safe initiatives or affiliation details with Children’s Hospital Foundation Heart Center at VCU to visit their website.
