Fox Cities News

The Oshkosh Area School District (OASD) has expanded its emergency preparedness resources by installing Overdose Aid Kits (O.A.K.s) in all middle and high schools. This initiative is a collaboration with the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) Overdose Response Network and Start Healing Now. A community event is scheduled for February 7, where state and school leaders, national prevention organizations, and community partners will gather to discuss opioid crisis impacts.

The kits include naloxone nasal spray, known as NARCAN, CPR breathing barriers, drug administration instructions, fentanyl testing strips, and treatment information. Naloxone can reverse opioid overdose effects within minutes without affecting individuals who haven't used opioids.

"This initiative reflects our comprehensive approach to emergency preparedness," said Julie Conrad, OASD assistant superintendent of operations. She emphasized that while there hasn't been an increase in drug-related incidents in schools, it's crucial to be prepared for emergencies.

Nationally, the O.A.K. program has shown significant impact with over 3,500 kits installed across the country, including 955 in Wisconsin. Jessica Geschke from CGI Overdose Response Network highlighted the importance of naloxone availability: "Surviving an overdose is the first step toward recovery."

Details for the Community Conversation Event are as follows:

- Date: February 7, 2025

- Time: 1 PM

- Location: Vel Phillips Middle School - Atrium

The event will feature remarks from Senator Tammy Baldwin via video and Senator Jesse James among others. Training sessions by CGI staff and personal testimonies from community members will also be part of the forum.

Earlier this month, OASD staff received training on overdose prevention and response strategies. The district shared information about these resources with families and engaged students in discussions about the kits' availability.

The naloxone and supplies in the kits are available for free to anyone needing them for emergencies or prevention. This aligns with efforts to expand access to life-saving resources in educational settings.