PENDER COUNTY, N.C. (WECT) – Pender County Schools on Aug. 23 announced that all 19 of its schools have met the Project ADAM Heart Safe criteria, the second school system in the state to achieve the designation, according to PCS.

“The initiative within Pender County Schools has been led by South Topsail Elementary Nurse Jamie Uhlman, whose dedication and leadership have been instrumental in reaching this milestone. Each school in the district has implemented the necessary measures and training to meet the rigorous standards required for Project ADAM certification. These measures include ensuring that Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are readily accessible, and that staff are trained to respond swiftly and effectively in the event of a cardiac emergency,” a PCS announcement states.

Project ADAM (Automated Defibrillators in Adam’s Memory) is a national program started in NC by Duke Pediatric and the Congenital Heart Center five years ago and aims to prevent student cardiac arrest at schools by establishing emergency plans and heart health awareness.

“We are deeply committed to the safety of our students and staff, and achieving the Project ADAM Heart Safe status reflects that commitment,” said Nurse Jamie Uhlman. “This accomplishment is not just about having the right equipment; it’s about building a culture of preparedness and ensuring that everyone in our schools knows how to respond in an emergency. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together as a district.”

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