‘Concerning;’ 2 students suffer heat-related illnesses after practice

BEAVERCREEK — Two students are recovering after getting sick in the heat this week.

As reported on News Center 7 at 5:00, the students were outside during one of the hottest times of the day practicing with the Junior ROTC.

A parent reached out to News Center 7 saying their student is an ROTC cadet at Beavercreek High School and was suffering from a heat-related illness on campus after outdoor conditioning Tuesday afternoon, and that student wasn’t alone.

The school district confirmed that emergency responders were called to the school to provide medical attention to one of the students.

With the dangerous heat in the Miami Valley this week, News Center 7 has talked to people concerned about outdoor practices or games for students.

“I have two granddaughters and one of them does track and it’s been canceled this week, so they are thinking about the kids,” said Michele Harshman.

Earlier this week, News Center 7 polled more than a dozen local school districts about the precautions they take to protect students in the heat for after-school activities.

Beavercreek Schools said Wednesday that includes their Air Force Junior ROTC program.

Despite those precautions, Beavercreek Schools confirmed two cadets experienced “heat-related issues” during fitness team practice Tuesday.

The school district provided News Center 7 with the following statement:

Please find information below in response to your inquiry. Unfortunately, no one is available to provide an on-camera interview this afternoon.

During the Beavercreek Air Force Junior ROTC Raider Fitness Team practice on August 27, 2024, two cadets experienced heat-related issues. Due to the forecasted conditions, the Raider Team workout and practice plan was adjusted (shortened) and multiple rest/water breaks were implemented. The first portion of the practice was a short run in the land lab east of BHS to take advantage of the shade and the second half of the workout was conducted in the field adjacent to the softball field following a rest/water break.

All cadets are required to sign a Participation / Parent Approval Form prior to taking part in any AFJROTC fitness activity at the beginning of the year. Our AFJROTC instructors and volunteer coaches are trained in emergency procedures (First Aid, CPR, etc.) and are required to complete BCSD ancillary training through the Coaches Tool Chest which includes heat-related injuries as one of the many topics.

AFJROTC follows protocols similar to the other sports teams regarding weather conditions. The cadets are monitored as they work out for any signs of distress and/or injury. As with other teams, the AFJROTC has access to BHS trainers should the need arise. With continued high temperatures forecasted today, the Raider Team training has been moved indoors.

—  Beavercreek City Schools

People News Center 7 spoke to said they were sorry to hear about the heat-related illnesses.

“I mean, it’s always concerning,” Debbie Woodside said.

We will continue updating this story.

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