Sugarcreek “Boys Night” Trains Future Firefighters

 

by Jonathan Weaver

About 20 Sugarcreek Elementary boys trained like a local firefighter during “Boys Night” Friday evening.

School Guidance Counselor Melissa Hogan explained Sugarcreek Fire Department and EMS’ participation was due to the Lego Rescue-themed event.

“They read a story – ‘I Survived the Great Chicago Fire.’ We sent out invites to all the boys in third through sixth grade and they respond whether or not they would like to come and get their book in time to read for the event,” Hogan said.

K-6 Reading Specialist Sarah Bojalad knew both the book and Legos would appeal to the kids enough to ask Sugarcreek EMS Paramedic/Ambulance Director Michael Barrett to volunteer with the fire company.

Barrett built props for the event with brother-in-law Jim DeVore.

Fire Chief Jim Hillwig said the course simulated the firefighter challenge, having students do such things as carrying a high-rise pack, swinging an ax and shooting water from the hose. He said both students and firefighters had fun.

“I love being with the kids – seeing their eyes. I like giving them the knowledge and showing them what its all about,” Chief Hillwig said. “(Barrett) did an excellent job with this. Hopefully, (students will) say ‘Maybe I want to be a volunteer firemen.’”

Firefighters train twice per month.

Also Assistant Fire Chief, Barrett is a father of two Sugarcreek Elementary students – second grader Zackary and pre-kindergartener Olivia.

Sugarcreek EMS has about 15-20 dispatches per week.

Besides the fire training, students also ate dinner, had a book discussion and built Lego models of their own with kits provided by East Brady Library.

Students last year read a book from the series “Star Wars: Jedi Academy.”

Students were able to read both books as part of the Accelerated Reader program. If students meet their goals, they will also participate in a field trip to and receive money for Barnes and Noble.

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