Every 15 Minutes, an emotional yet powerful two day event, took place on April 1 and 2. This event reminded both juniors and seniors of the devastating consequences of impaired driving. Hosted by the PTSA, the program happens every two years and simulates the tragic reality that every 15 minutes someone dies from an alcohol related accident.
Day 1: The Crash Scene
On April 1, students gathered to witness a simulated car crash involving their peers. The scene was intense, raw, and heart wrenching. It was designed to make the consequences of a split second decision feel real. The crash complete with emergency responders, created a visual and emotional experience that left many students silent with shock.
Day 2: The Memorial Service
The following day, a memorial service was held in the mpr to honor the “deceased” victims of the crash. A film produced by the schools film production class played on a projector, capturing the moments leading up to and following the crash. The video brought many students to tears, as it showed the very real pain, loss, and grief that tear apart families and communities after such a tragedy.
After the film each “deceased” student walked to the podium and gave a eulogy from the perspective of someone whose life was cut short simply because of one person’s decision to drive under the influence. Parents of the “victims” sat in the audience, making the experience even more emotional and real.
Behind the Scenes
The film production class gave everything they had into making the Every 15 Minutes video. Each student took on specific roles. From filming in fire trucks and ambulances to capturing scenes at the courthouse, mortuary, jail, and even the house party. In just 24 hours, the team organized, edited, and finalized the film, creating a piece that was both haunting and impactful.
Senior Viktoria Padovich, a film student said, “I had a great time working with everyone on this, and I really hope it helps prevent drunk driving incidents through awareness.”
Every 15 Minutes isn’t just an event, it’s a wake up call. One that reminds students that choices have consequences, and sometimes in life there are no second chances.
