Pembina Hills would like to express appreciation for the many warm wishes we received after yesterday’s incident involving the school bus and the logging truck. Anyone who saw the scene or the pictures might easily imagine how the outcome could have been different. As we reflect on the event, we acknowledge the many big and small heroes of the day.
The bus driver, support staff, and older students on the bus, as well as staff and others who were on scene at the time of the incident all helped to move students off the bus safely. Although it probably felt and looked chaotic, students and staff knew to evacuate out the rear doors of the bus while others exited with the driver out the front. The passengers of the bus really ought to be commended for their courage, quick thinking and actions during the incident.
After evacuating the bus, most students were moved quickly to the staff room at Barrhead Elementary School where they waited for their parents. The Pembina Hills staff of the schools who were in the area, and especially the staff at Barrhead Elementary School were excellent. They were caring and efficient.
Local Emergency Response workers arrived quickly after the accident. Many were involved with securing the scene and many were actively checking in with students in the school. Superintendent Michael Borgfjord was at Barrhead Elementary and he observed that the emergency measures folks spoke kindly and compassionately with the students and parents in the school. PHSD student support staff stayed on site and in contact throughout the day.
Obviously, the situation could have been worse and thankfully the logs did not make contact with any passengers. Thanks to all who responded with courage and compassion. Pembina Hills staff will continue to be available to provide counselling and emotional support.