Indio students take on disaster drill at JFK Memorial Hospital

Fifth graders from Dr. Carreon Academy in Indio participated in a disaster drill and career day Friday. The exercise, hosted by the Coachella Valley Economic Partnership and Dr. Carreon Foundation gives them a chance to explore the world of medicine at JFK Memorial Hospital.

Students role-played victims of a plane crash and chemical spill. They shadowed nurses and first responders. They were also transported by paramedics.

“I get to learn more about the hospital and the doctors that work here,” said 11-year-old Jocelyn Maldonado.

“We are a medical magnet school, this is perfect because the kids get to find out all of the different careers offered to them,” said Dr. Carreon Academy principal Regina Heredia.

Students were also able to meet Indio police officers and K9’s to learn about law enforcement.