Teachers & Coaches: Georgia CPR Requirements Under Senate Bill 212

Meta Description: Complete guide to CPR requirements for Georgia teachers and coaches. Learn about Senate Bill 212, which educators need BLS certification, coaching requirements, and where to get certified in Augusta. Call 706-901-7277.

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Quick Answer: Do Teachers and Coaches Need CPR in Georgia?

It depends on your role. Georgia law has specific CPR requirements for certain educators and athletic personnel:

REQUIRED to have CPR certification:

• Athletic coaches (head coaches and assistants) at public schools
• Physical education teachers in many school districts
• School nurses (AHA BLS required)
• Athletic trainers (AHA BLS required)
• Certain special education teachers (varies by district)

STRONGLY RECOMMENDED but not always required:

• Elementary classroom teachers
• Middle and high school teachers
• After-school program coordinators
• Substitute teachers

Need CPR certification for teaching or coaching in Augusta? Pulse CPR and First Aid School offers flexible scheduling for educators. Book your class or call 706-901-7277.

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Georgia Senate Bill 212: What Teachers & Coaches Need to Know

The Law Explained

Georgia Senate Bill 212 (enacted 2020, updated provisions through 2024) addresses cardiac emergency response in Georgia schools, including:

Key Provisions:

1. Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) Required
   • Every public school must have at least one AED
   • AEDs must be accessible during school hours and athletic events
   • Schools must maintain and inspect AEDs regularly
2. CPR Training Requirements
   • All head coaches and assistant coaches must be CPR certified
   • Certification must include AED training
   • Must be from nationally recognized organization (AHA, ARC)
   • Recertification required per organization standards (typically every 2 years)
3. Cardiac Emergency Response Plan
   • Each school must have written emergency action plan
   • Plan must include AED locations and use procedures
   • Annual review and practice drills required
4. Athletic Event Coverage
   • At least one CPR/AED trained individual must be present at athletic events
   • AED must be accessible at all home athletic competitions
   • Plan for accessing emergency services (911)

Which Certification Satisfies Georgia Requirements?

Acceptable CPR certifications for coaches:

✅ American Heart Association (AHA) CPR/AED – Most common choice

• Heartsaver CPR/AED (for coaches/PE teachers)
• BLS for Healthcare Providers (also acceptable, more comprehensive)

✅ American Red Cross CPR/AED – Also widely accepted

• Adult & Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED
• CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers

✅ Other nationally recognized programs IF they include:

• Adult CPR
• Pediatric CPR (child & infant)
• AED training
• Hands-on skills verification

❌ NOT acceptable:

• Online-only certifications without skills verification
• Expired certifications
• Basic first aid without CPR component
• Certifications that don’t include AED training

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CPR Requirements by School District in Augusta Area

Richmond County School System (Augusta)

Coaching Requirements:

• All head coaches: AHA or ARC CPR/AED certification required
• Assistant coaches: CPR/AED certification required
• Must be current at season start
• Recertification tracked by athletic director
• Copy of certification card on file in athletics office

Teacher Requirements:

• Physical education teachers: CPR/AED certification required
• Special education teachers: CPR recommended (required in some programs)
• General education teachers: Not required but encouraged
• School nurses: AHA BLS for Healthcare Providers required

Where RCSS educators get certified:

• District occasionally offers group training sessions
• Most obtain certification independently
• Must use AHA or ARC certified training center

Contact: Richmond County Schools Athletic Office – 706-826-1025

Columbia County School District (Evans, Grovetown, Martinez)

Coaching Requirements:

• All varsity and JV coaches: CPR/AED certification mandatory
• Middle school coaches: CPR/AED certification required
• Recreation/club coaches: Check with specific program
• Certification verified before first practice
• Annual re-verification at coach’s meeting

Teacher Requirements:

• PE teachers: Required to maintain CPR/AED certification
• Classroom teachers: Not required (but offered through district PD)
• Special needs teachers: Required for certain programs
• Career and Technical Education: May be required depending on program

Professional Development:

• District offers CPR training during pre-planning
• Limited spots available (fills quickly)
• Alternative: Get certified independently

Contact: Columbia County Schools HR – 706-541-0650

Burke County Schools (Waynesboro)

Coaching Requirements:

• Head coaches: CPR/AED required
• Assistant coaches: Strongly recommended
• Athletic trainers: AHA BLS required

Teacher Requirements:

• PE teachers: CPR/AED required
• Other teachers: Not required

Private Schools in Augusta Area

Requirements vary by school. Common requirements:

Augusta Preparatory Day School:

• All coaches: CPR/AED required
• PE faculty: CPR/AED required
• Some faculty wellness initiatives include CPR training

Westminster Schools of Augusta:

• Athletic staff: CPR/AED certification required
• Faculty participation in CPR training encouraged
• School hosts periodic training sessions

Aquinas High School:

• Coaches: CPR/AED required per GHSA rules
• Faculty: Not required but available through school

Curtis Baptist High School:

• Athletic personnel: CPR/AED required
• Some teacher positions require or prefer CPR certification

Note to private school educators: Check with your specific school’s HR department for requirements.

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Georgia High School Association (GHSA) Coaching Requirements

GHSA Certification Requirements

The Georgia High School Association governs interscholastic athletics for member schools. While GHSA doesn’t directly mandate CPR (that’s state law via SB 212), they strongly support it:

GHSA Coach Certification Process includes:

1. First Aid, Health & Safety for Coaches course
2. Fundamentals of Coaching course
3. CPR/AED certification (separate requirement per SB 212)
4. Concussion training
5. Sudden Cardiac Arrest training

CPR/AED specifically:

• Must be from nationally recognized organization
• Must include hands-on skills assessment
• Must remain current throughout coaching season
• Lapsed certification = ineligible to coach until renewed

Sport-Specific Considerations

High-risk sports requiring CPR-certified personnel:

Football:

• Head coach, assistant coaches, athletic trainer
• CPR/AED trained personnel on sideline during games
• AED accessible at all practices and games

Basketball:

• Coaching staff CPR certified
• AED at gymnasium
• Emergency action plan posted

Baseball/Softball:

• Coaches CPR certified
• AED accessible from field
• Plan for lightning delays (cardiac risk)

Track & Field:

• Coaches CPR certified
• AED mobile or at track
• Heat-related emergency protocols

Swimming/Diving:

• Coaches CPR certified (critical for aquatic emergencies)
• Lifeguard certification often required in addition
• AED poolside
• Special water rescue protocols

Cheerleading:

• Coaches CPR certified
• High injury risk requires immediate response capability
• AED at practices and competitions

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Heartsaver CPR/AED vs. BLS for Healthcare Providers: Which Do Educators Need?

For Most Coaches and PE Teachers: Heartsaver CPR/AED

Heartsaver CPR/AED Course Includes:

• Adult CPR and AED use
• Child CPR and AED use
• Infant CPR (optional module, but recommended)
• Choking relief (conscious and unconscious)
• Hands-on skills practice and testing
• Written exam

Course Duration: 2-3 hours

Ideal for:

• Coaches (all sports)
• Physical education teachers
• After-school program leaders
• Recreation department staff
• Camp counselors

Cost at Pulse CPR School: $59-69 (pricing varies by class format)

For School Nurses & Athletic Trainers: BLS for Healthcare Providers

BLS for Healthcare Providers Includes:

• Everything in Heartsaver PLUS:
• Two-rescuer CPR scenarios
• Bag-valve-mask (BVM) ventilation
• Opioid-associated emergencies
• Healthcare team dynamics
• Integration with advanced life support

Course Duration: 3-4 hours

Required for:

• School nurses (RN, LPN)
• Certified athletic trainers
• EMTs working at schools
• School-based health clinic staff

Cost at Pulse CPR School: $69

Still Unsure Which Course You Need?

Ask yourself:

1. What does my employer require? (Check with HR/Athletic Director)
2. Am I a licensed healthcare provider? (If yes → BLS)
3. Am I coaching or teaching PE? (If yes → Heartsaver usually sufficient)
4. Do I want the highest level of training? (BLS is more comprehensive)

When in doubt, call us: 706-901-7277. We’ll help you determine the right course for your specific role.

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What’s Covered in CPR Training for Educators

Adult CPR (Critical for High School Athletics)

Recognition of cardiac arrest:

• Unresponsive victim
• No normal breathing or only gasping
• Difference between cardiac arrest and other emergencies

High-quality CPR technique:

• Hand placement: Center of chest, between nipples
• Compression depth: 2-2.4 inches
• Compression rate: 100-120 per minute
• Full chest recoil between compressions
• Minimize interruptions (hands-off time <10 seconds)

Rescue breaths:

• Head tilt-chin lift to open airway
• Proper seal with pocket mask or face shield
• 30 compressions : 2 breaths ratio
• Watching for chest rise

Child CPR (Ages 1-Puberty)

Modified technique for children:

• One or two hands for compressions (based on child size)
• Compression depth: 2 inches (or 1/3 chest depth)
• Same compression rate: 100-120/minute
• Same 30:2 ratio

Common scenarios for teachers/coaches:

• Playground accidents leading to cardiac arrest
• Choking during lunch
• Asthma attacks progressing to respiratory arrest
• Cardiac conditions in student-athletes

Infant CPR (Under Age 1)

Two-finger compression technique:

• Use 2 fingers placed just below nipple line
• Compression depth: 1.5 inches (or 1/3 chest depth)
• Same rate: 100-120/minute
• Gentle rescue breaths covering infant’s mouth AND nose

When educators need infant CPR:

• Early childhood educators (Pre-K, Head Start)
• Daycare providers in school settings
• Coaches of very young athletes
• Family engagement events with infant siblings present

AED Use in Schools

Automated External Defibrillator training includes:

Location & Access:

• Where AEDs are located in your school building
• How to access AED quickly (locked cabinets, hallway-mounted)
• Who to send to retrieve AED while you start CPR

Operation:

• Turn on AED and follow voice prompts
• Expose victim’s chest (remove shirt)
• Apply pads as shown on diagram (right upper chest, left lower ribs)
• Clear victim during analysis and shock
• Resume CPR immediately after shock

Special situations:

• Wet victims (sports fields, pool areas) – dry chest first
• Medication patches – remove if in pad placement area
• Pacemakers/ICD – avoid placing pads directly over device
• Children under 8 or under 55 lbs – use pediatric pads if available

Choking Relief (Heimlich Maneuver)

Conscious choking:

• Ask “Are you choking?” (if victim nods, can’t speak, is clutching throat)
• Abdominal thrusts (Heimlich): Stand behind, fist above navel, quick upward thrusts
• Continue until object expelled or victim becomes unconscious

Unconscious choking:

• Lower victim to ground
• Begin CPR (compressions may dislodge object)
• Look for object in mouth before giving rescue breaths
• Remove object if visible and easily retrievable

Special considerations for coaches:

• Choking on mouthguards
• Athletes aspirating during intense exercise
• Food-related choking (team meals, post-game snacks)

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Emergency Scenarios: When Teachers & Coaches Use CPR Skills

Real Case Studies from Georgia Schools

Case Study 1: High School Football Practice (Gwinnett County, 2019)

Scenario:
16-year-old varsity football player collapsed during conditioning drills on a hot August afternoon. Athlete was unresponsive, not breathing normally.

Coach’s Response:

1. Recognized cardiac arrest (later determined to be sudden cardiac arrest from undiagnosed heart condition)
2. Directed assistant coach to call 911 and get AED
3. Began immediate CPR
4. Applied AED when retrieved (shock advised and delivered)
5. Continued CPR until EMS arrived

Outcome: Student survived and recovered fully due to immediate response. Coach’s CPR training and AED use within 3 minutes was credited with saving athlete’s life.

Lesson: Sudden cardiac arrest can strike young, apparently healthy athletes. CPR + AED = survival.

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Case Study 2: Elementary School Playground (Richmond County)

Scenario:
8-year-old student collapsed on playground during recess. PE teacher nearby observed child fall and become unresponsive.

Teacher’s Response:

1. Assessed responsiveness (child not responding to voice or touch)
2. Checked breathing (gasping, not normal breathing)
3. Sent another teacher to call 911 and get AED
4. Began child CPR (30 compressions : 2 breaths)
5. AED arrived and applied (no shock advised)
6. Continued CPR until EMS arrived

Outcome: Child had experienced seizure leading to respiratory arrest. CPR prevented progression to full cardiac arrest. Full recovery.

Lesson: Not all emergencies are cardiac in origin, but CPR skills apply across scenarios. Early recognition and action critical.

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Case Study 3: Middle School Cafeteria Choking (Columbia County)

Scenario:
12-year-old student choking on food during lunch period. Student grabbed throat (universal choking sign), unable to speak or cough.

Teacher Response:

1. Recognized complete airway obstruction
2. Performed Heimlich maneuver (abdominal thrusts)
3. Object expelled after 3 thrusts
4. Student recovered immediately

Outcome: No further medical intervention needed. Student evaluated by school nurse, sent home same day.

Lesson: Choking is one of the most common emergencies in schools. Heimlich maneuver saves lives and is part of standard CPR training.

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Group CPR Training for Schools & Athletic Departments

Benefits of School-Wide CPR Training

Why entire schools/departments get certified together:

✅ Cost savings – Group discounts available (typically 10-20% off)
✅ Coordinated schedules – Everyone recertifies on same cycle
✅ Team preparedness – Shared experience builds confidence in emergency response
✅ School culture – Demonstrates commitment to student safety
✅ Compliance – Ensures all required personnel are current

On-Site Training at Your School

Pulse CPR School offers on-site training for:

• Entire athletic departments (all coaches, trainers)
• PE departments
• Special education teams
• School-wide faculty training days
• Parent/community CPR education events

On-site training logistics:

• We bring all equipment (manikins, AEDs, training materials)
• Set up in gymnasium, cafeteria, or multipurpose room
• Train 10-50 participants per session
• Schedule during teacher workdays, pre-planning, or after school
• Same AHA certification as in-person classes at our center

To schedule on-site school training: Call 706-901-7277 or email pulsecpr967@gmail.com

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When to Renew Your CPR Certification

2-Year Certification Cycle

AHA and ARC certifications valid for: 2 years from issue date

Renewal timing for educators:

Summer Renewal Strategy (Most Popular):

• Renew in June/July before new school year
• All coaches current before fall sports season
• Avoid mid-season renewal complications
• Time it with other required coaching certifications

Avoid These Renewal Mistakes:

• Waiting until certification actually expires (last-minute class availability limited)
• Forgetting to renew during busy season (mid-season renewal disrupts practice/game schedules)
• Not coordinating with athletic director (may have specific deadline requirements)

Set Reminders:

• 90 days before expiration: Start looking at class schedules
• 60 days before: Register for renewal class
• 30 days before: Attend class and submit new card to school

Consequences of Lapsed Certification for Coaches

If your CPR certification expires:

❌ Not eligible to coach until recertified (per SB 212)
❌ Cannot be present at practices or games in official capacity
❌ School liability concerns if you continue coaching
❌ Must retake full course (not shorter renewal) if certification lapsed

Athletic director action:

• Remove from coaching roster
• Replace with certified assistant or volunteer
• Cannot reinstate until new certification received

Don’t risk it: Maintain current certification throughout entire season and off-season.

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Cost of CPR Certification for Educators

Individual Certification Pricing

At Pulse CPR School:

• Heartsaver CPR/AED: $59-69
• BLS for Healthcare Providers: $69
• First Aid + CPR combo: $79-89

What’s included:

• 2-4 hours of instruction (depending on course)
• AHA certification card (digital eCard same day)
• Physical card (mailed within 5 days)
• Course materials
• All equipment use (manikins, AEDs)
• Skills assessment and written exam
• 2-year certification

Group Discounts for Schools

When 5+ educators register together:

• 10% discount per person
• 15% discount for 10+ people
• 20% discount for 20+ people
• Custom pricing for whole-school training events

Example group pricing:

• 10 coaches at regular $69 each = $690
• With 15% group discount = $586.50 total ($58.65 per person)
• Savings: $103.50

Is CPR Training Tax Deductible?

For teachers and coaches, CPR certification is tax-deductible as:

Unreimbursed Employee Expenses (if itemizing):

• Required by employer for job
• Maintains professional skills
• Include mileage to/from training

Self-Employed Coaches (club sports, private lessons):

• Deduct on Schedule C as business expense
• Full deduction for certification costs

Educator Expense Deduction:

• K-12 teachers can deduct up to $300 in unreimbursed expenses
• CPR certification qualifies if required for job
• Keep receipt from training center

Consult your tax preparer about specific deductions for your situation.

School Reimbursement Policies

Many school districts reimburse CPR certification:

Richmond County Schools:

• Reimbursement available for required certifications
• Submit receipt to HR or athletic director
• Processing time: 4-6 weeks typically

Columbia County Schools:

• Professional learning funds can cover CPR
• Pre-approval required in some cases
• Check with building administrator

Private Schools:

• Reimbursement policies vary widely
• Often covered for required coaching certifications
• Ask HR before registering

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Scheduling CPR Training Around the School Year

Best Times for Teachers to Get Certified

Summer Months (June-July):

• Most popular time for teacher CPR training
• Before new school year preparation kicks in
• Ensures certification current for entire school year
• Available during daytime hours (not competing with after-school commitments)

Winter Break (December-January):

• Good option if summer wasn’t available
• Typically slower class schedule (fewer students)
• Refresher before spring sports season

Spring Break (March-April):

• Last opportunity before end of school year
• Good timing if certification expires in summer
• Plan for next school year

Avoid These Times:

• First week back to school (too hectic)
• Week before standardized testing
• Homecoming week
• Championship game weeks

Best Times for Coaches to Get Certified

Off-Season (Sport-Specific):

• Fall sports coaches: Get certified in April-June
• Winter sports coaches: Get certified in August-September
• Spring sports coaches: Get certified in November-December

Pre-Season:

• At least 30 days before first official practice
• Allows time for card processing and submission to athletic director
• Avoids last-minute stress

Coordinate with Other Required Certifications:

• GHSA coaching certification courses
• Concussion training
• Fundamentals of Coaching
• Complete all certifications in same timeframe

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Common Questions from Teachers & Coaches

Do substitute teachers need CPR certification?

Generally no, but it depends on:

• Long-term substitute positions: May require CPR if replacing PE teacher or coach
• Short-term/daily substitutes: Not required
• Substitute coaches: Yes, if serving as head coach for game/practice

If you substitute regularly, consider getting certified: It makes you more valuable to schools and can lead to more assignments.

Can I take CPR certification online?

Partially. The AHA offers blended learning (HeartCode):

1. Complete cognitive portion online (1-2 hours)
2. Attend in-person skills session (1-2 hours)

You cannot complete 100% online and meet SB 212 requirements. Hands-on skills must be verified in person.

Pulse CPR School offers HeartCode format – call 706-901-7277 for details.

What if I’m coaching at multiple schools?

You only need one current certification. Your AHA or ARC card is valid across all schools where you coach.

However:

• Each school will require a copy of your card on file
• Verify expiration date covers all seasons at all schools
• If coaching different sports seasons, ensure certification doesn’t expire mid-year

Do volunteer coaches need CPR?

Yes, if they have regular coaching duties. SB 212 doesn’t distinguish between paid and volunteer coaches. If you’re coaching practices or games, CPR/AED certification is required.

Exceptions:

• One-time guest speakers/clinicians: Not required
• Parent volunteers at single event: Not required
• Booster club members not coaching: Not required

What happens if a student has cardiac emergency and I’m not CPR certified?

Legal perspective:

• Good Samaritan laws in Georgia protect laypersons who attempt to help
• However, if you’re in a role required to be CPR certified (coach, PE teacher) and you’re not, this could be problematic
• Schools carry liability insurance, but your employment could be affected

Moral perspective:

• You’d want to help but may not know how
• Delay in starting CPR dramatically reduces survival odds
• Every second counts in cardiac emergencies

Bottom line: Get certified. It’s the right thing to do professionally and personally.

Can I get CPR certified during a teacher workday?

Yes! Many schools schedule group CPR training during:

• Pre-planning days (August)
• Teacher workdays
• Professional learning days
• Post-planning days (May)

If your school doesn’t offer it:

• Propose it to administration (Pulse CPR can provide on-site training)
• Use personal PD time to get certified independently
• Attend weekend or evening class

How long does the CPR class take?

Heartsaver CPR/AED: 2-3 hours (most coaches/PE teachers)
BLS for Healthcare Providers: 3-4 hours (school nurses, athletic trainers)

Includes:

• Instruction and demonstration
• Hands-on practice time
• Skills assessment
• Written exam
• Short breaks

At Pulse CPR School: Classes are efficient and focused. We respect your time and get you certified quickly.

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Additional Training Recommendations for Educators

First Aid Certification

Beyond CPR, consider First Aid training:

Common school emergencies requiring first aid:

• Cuts, scrapes, bleeding
• Sprains, strains, fractures
• Heat exhaustion and heat stroke
• Allergic reactions
• Asthma attacks
• Diabetic emergencies
• Seizures

First Aid + CPR combo course:

• Comprehensive emergency response training
• Covers both cardiac and non-cardiac emergencies
• Slightly longer class (4-5 hours)
• Cost at Pulse CPR School: $79-89

Stop the Bleed Training

Trauma response training for schools:

Recent emphasis on school safety includes:

• Severe bleeding control
• Tourniquet application
• Wound packing techniques
• Pressure point control

Available through:

• Local hospitals
• EMS agencies
• Some CPR training centers

Why it matters: Schools are increasingly preparing for all types of emergencies, including traumatic injuries.

Concussion Recognition

Required for all Georgia coaches:

• Recognize signs/symptoms of concussion
• When to remove athlete from play
• Return-to-play protocols
• Coordination with athletic trainers and physicians

Resources:

• CDC HEADS UP training (free online)
• NFHS concussion course
• GHSA requirements

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Ready to Get CPR Certified in Augusta?

Teachers and coaches throughout the Augusta area trust Pulse CPR and First Aid School for their CPR/AED certification. With flexible scheduling, experienced instruction, and same-day certification, you can meet Georgia’s SB 212 requirements confidently.

Next Steps:

1. Determine which course you need (Heartsaver CPR/AED or BLS)
2. Check your school’s reimbursement policy (many cover cost)
3. Choose a convenient class time (evenings, weekends, summer months)
4. Register online at pulsecprschool.com/classes
5. Attend your 2-4 hour class (no prep required)
6. Receive your certification card same day

Book Your CPR Class Today

📍 Location: 110 Davis Rd, Suite 18, Martinez, GA 30907
📞 Phone: 706-901-7277
📧 Email: pulsecpr967@gmail.com
🕐 Hours: Monday-Sunday, 8 AM–9 PM
💳 Price: $59-69 (depending on course)

Register Online Now →

Group Training for Schools & Athletic Departments

Need to certify your entire coaching staff or faculty?

Pulse CPR School provides on-site training for schools throughout the Augusta area:

✅ We bring all equipment to your school
✅ Schedule during workdays or after school
✅ Train 10-50 educators in single session
✅ Group discounts available
✅ Same AHA certification

Call 706-901-7277 for a customized group training quote.

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Additional Resources for Georgia Educators

Georgia Department of Education

• Website: gadoe.org
• School safety resources: gadoe.org/safety

Georgia High School Association (GHSA)

• Website: ghsa.net
• Coaching certification: ghsa.net/coaching

American Heart Association

• CPR course information: cpr.heart.org
• Find your digital eCard: ecard.heart.org

Richmond County School System

• Website: rcboe.org
• Athletics: 706-826-1025

Columbia County Schools

• Website: ccboe.net
• HR Department: 706-541-0650

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About Pulse CPR and First Aid School: We’re an American Heart Association Training Center proudly serving teachers, coaches, and educators throughout Augusta, Martinez, Evans, Grovetown, and the CSRA. With over 20,000 students trained, we understand the unique scheduling needs of school professionals. Our mission is to provide high-quality, accessible life-saving training that empowers educators to protect their students.

Last updated: December 2025

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