SHELBY — Each second matters when someone is experiencing a medical emergency.
Two Shelby City Schools staff members wasted no time after a student made the universal sign for choking Tuesday afternoon at Shelby High School.
According to a Saturday morning press release from Supt. Michael Browning, the district is highlighting the heroic actions of staff members Adam Schroeder and Baylie Wright following the student’s medical emergency.
“As students were leaving class at the end of the school day, student Ayden Smith began
making the universal sign for choking. Schroeder and Wright immediately responded,” the release said.
Schroeder performed the Heimlich maneuver several times, successfully clearing the
obstruction and saving Smith’s life, while Wright assisted with back thrusts and cared for the student throughout the emergency.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, the Heimlich maneuver is a “quick and life-saving method,” but it should only be used on conscious people who can’t breathe on their own.
Students also acted quickly to help, according to the district. Some alerted the office, others offered assistance and one student retrieved the LifeVac device from the hallway.
A LifeVac is a “simple, safe and effective choking rescue device that can help save a life in the event of a choking emergency and is designed for use on both adults and children,” according to the company’s website.
The device uses suction to remove obstructions from the airway by placing a mask over a victim’s mouth and nose, “then pushing down and swiftly pulling up on the handle.”
“There is no question Mr. Schroeder and Mrs. Wright saved this young man’s life,” Browning said. “What also stood out was how everyone responded in a moment of crisis.
“Staff and students stayed calm, acted quickly and worked together to help. I could not be more proud of Adam, Baylie and the students who stepped up.”
The incident occurred during National Teacher Appreciation Week, which lasted from May 4 to 8, serving as a meaningful reminder that educators impact students in ways far beyond classroom instruction, the release said.
“We are incredibly grateful for the quick and selfless actions of Mr. Schroeder and Mrs. Wright during this emergency,” said Shelby High School Principal John Gies. “Without hesitation, they stepped in, remained calm under pressure and performed the Heimlich maneuver to save a student who was choking.
“Their actions reflect the care, courage and commitment our staff show to students every day.”
Browning said this response reflects the culture of Shelby City Schools.
“The compassion, professionalism and willingness to put students first is something we see from our staff every day,” Browning said. “While this situation was extraordinary, I am not surprised by the actions of our team.”
The Board of Education will recognize Wright and Schroeder through a formal proclamation at its May 18 meeting.
“As we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week, we are reminded that educators make a
difference in countless ways,” Browning added. “We are grateful for the people who dedicate themselves each day to supporting, protecting and caring for our students.
“Their impact reaches far beyond the classroom.”