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Tyreek Johnson, a security monitor at Vails Gate STEAM Academy in New Windsor, is being hailed as a hero after saving a first grader from choking. The incident occurred in the school cafeteria when Johnson noticed the child in distress. He quickly performed abdominal thrusts, originally known as the Heimlich Maneuver, successfully dislodging the food from the child's throat. After the incident, Johnson took the student to the nurse for further evaluation.
This is not the first time Johnson has used his life-saving skills. In 2023, he performed abdominal thrusts on a second grader in the same cafeteria. All security monitors in the Newburgh Enlarged City School District (NECSD) receive regular training in Basic Life Saver First Aid and are certified in CPR and AED. School nurses, nurse teachers, and athletic coaches are also required to complete regular training. Additionally, administrators received CPR and AED training during professional development sessions over the summer.
According to Mid Hudson News, Johnson's quick response highlights the importance of first aid training in schools.