Saint Xavier High School is known across Kentucky for hosting one of the largest blood drives in the state. This past month alone, more than 205 units of blood were collected, a number that directly saves lives.
With that level of success, a fair question arises: should Saint Xavier host two blood drives each year instead of one?
Supporters of adding a second blood drive argue that the need for blood never slows down. Hospitals require a constant supply, and shortages are common, especially during winter months and the summer.
Hosting another drive could potentially double Saint Xavier’s already impressive impact. It would also give students who are unable to donate during the current drive, due to illness, sports schedules, or age restrictions, another opportunity to participate.
However, there are real concerns on the other side. As Mr. Mullen pointed out, the blood drive is a major disruption to the school day.
“We should have one outside of the school day because it’s a big disruption to the day,” Mullen said.
The event takes place over many hours, and students are constantly leaving class at different times to donate. This can interrupt lessons, slow down class, and make it difficult for teachers to teach.
A possible compromise would be to host one blood drive during the school day and a second one outside of class hours, such as on a weekend or evening. This would allow Saint Xavier to increase its community impact while minimizing disruption to the school day. It would also open the event to alumni, parents, and community members who may not be able to attend during the school day.
