Full Notification

Rohnert Park, CA — Rancho Cotate High School recently participated in the Every 15 Minutes program, a two-day educational initiative designed to encourage high school students to consider the real-world consequences of impaired and distracted driving.
 
Years in the making, the Every 15 Minutes program requires extensive planning, coordination, and collaboration among law enforcement, fire, emergency medical services, school administrators, counselors, and community partners. Months of preparation go into developing a realistic and impactful scenario, coordinating student participation, and ensuring the program is delivered safely, respectfully, and effectively for all involved.
 
The Every 15 Minutes program is a nationally recognized teen driver safety initiative that uses a realistic, multi-day simulation to demonstrate the devastating impacts of a fatal collision involving alcohol or drug impairment.
 
On the first day, students observed a simulated crash response involving law enforcement, fire, and EMS personnel. The exercise included emergency response operations, an on-scene investigation, and the removal of student participants portraying victims, as well as the difficult process of notifying family members—highlighting the emotional impact such incidents have on loved ones and the community.
 
On the second day, students participated in a follow-up assembly focused on reflection, education, and personal decision-making. Guest speakers, program participants, and community members shared messages about responsibility, peer influence, and the lasting consequences of impaired driving, reinforcing the goal of empowering students to make safe choices and understand that a single decision can change lives forever.
 
This year’s program was made possible through the collaboration and support of numerous agencies and partners, including the California Highway Patrol (CHP), Cotati Police Department, Rancho Adobe Fire Protection District, Sonoma Fire District, Sonoma County Chaplaincy, Paws as Loving Support Assistance dog teams, school staff, and community volunteers, along with additional assisting agencies and contributors. Their involvement ensures the program remains both impactful and supportive for students experiencing a powerful and emotional educational event.
 
The Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety extends its sincere appreciation to all participating agencies, school administrators, volunteers, and community partners for their dedication to student safety and prevention education.
 
The Every 15 Minutes program continues to serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of safe driving choices and the shared responsibility of keeping roadways safe for everyone.
 
Remember: Every 15 Minutes Someone In America Dies Because Someone CHOOSES to Drink and Drive.