MDHHS awards 360 schools MI HEARTSafe designation

LANSING, Mich. - The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) awarded 360 schools the MI HEARTSafe designation today for going above and beyond to prepare for cardiac emergencies during a ceremony at the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) in East Lansing.

For more than a decade, MDHHS, in partnership with the Michigan Department of Education, American Heart Association, MHSAA and Michigan Alliance for Prevention of Sudden Cardiac Death of the Young, have partnered to recognize schools for their efforts to protect the health and well-being of their communities.

This year's honorees include 133 first-time recipients. Since the program's inception in 2013, 1,360 schools have received this honor; and 1,063 schools maintain an active MI HEARTSafe designation.

"Michigan's schools play a crucial role in protecting our children, and the MI HEARTSafe designation reflects a strong, clear commitment to cardiac emergency preparedness," said Amy Epkey, MDHHS acting director. "I'm grateful to the educators, coaches and school leaders who ensure trained staff, reliable equipment and practiced plans are in place. These 360 honorees show what it means to put student safety first, and MDHHS is proud to champion their work in creating safe environments where students can learn, play and thrive."

To receive a MI HEARTSafe School designation, schools must satisfy five critical safety criteria:

• Written Emergency Plan: A cardiac emergency response plan and team capable of responding during school hours, after-school activities and athletic events.

• AED Accessibility: Accessible, properly maintained and routinely inspected Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) with clear directional signage.

• Staff Certification: Current CPR/AED certification for at least 10% of total staff, 50% of coaches (including 100% of head coaches) and 100% of physical education teachers.

• Regular Drills: Annual cardiac emergency response drills to test preparedness.

• Student Screenings: Pre-participation athletic health screenings using the MHSAA-endorsed physical and history form.

"Part of putting Students First is protecting their safety and well-being while they are at school," said State Superintendent Dr. Glenn Maleyko. "It's important to recognize MI HEARTSafe schools that are prepared for cardiac emergencies, which contributes to progress in achieving Goal 3 in Michigan's Top 10 Strategic Education Plan, to improve the health, safety and wellness of all learners."

Maintaining the MI HEARTSafe designation remains a vital priority for fostering safe learning and athletic environments statewide. To support schools seeking designation, MDHHS will host a virtual educational workshop in January 2027. Continuing education credits will be available for attending nurses and school personnel.

A complete list of designated schools and resources to meet program criteria can be found on the MI HEARTSafe School Award Program - Michigan Genetics Resource Center.

# # #