Lindbergh Teacher Aide Recognized for Performing Heimlich Maneuver

Lindbergh Elementary School teacher aide Erica Higgins has been awarded the New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) 2026 Community Service Award in recognition for successfully performing the Heimlich maneuver on a student who was choking earlier this school year.

On a school day in September, students were just sitting down for snack time in Lanie Simon’s kindergarten classroom when a student began choking on a piece of a carrot. Miss Simon immediately noticed the student in distress, recognized the signs that she was choking, and attempted to dislodge the item using back blows. When back blows didn’t work, teacher aide Mrs. Higgins, who served as an EMT for ten years, stepped in and performed the Heimlich maneuver, dislodging the piece of carrot on the fourth thrust. The whole situation unfolded in a matter of seconds and the work performed by Mrs. Higgins resolved this potentially serious medical situation.

The Ken-Ton School District recognized both Mrs. Higgins and Miss Simon for the manner in which they stayed calm and took action. It was an example of how staff are always looking out for students and will stop at nothing to keep them safe.

NYSUT is the statewide organization that represents teachers and other school staff. Established in 1993, the NYSUT Community Service Awards were created to recognize individuals who have given outstanding volunteer service to their communities.