Middle school teachers Jeff Monk and Tom Maldonado save students with quick Heimlich maneuvers

During the recent Board of Education meeting on December 18, 2024, the Bettendorf Community School District (BCSD) celebrated the heroic actions of two teachers who responded swiftly to life-threatening situations in their classrooms.

Mister Jeff Monk, a middle school teacher, was recognized for his quick thinking when a student in his homeroom began choking on November 15. Monk performed the Heimlich maneuver effectively, dislodging the blockage and preventing what could have been a tragic incident. The student’s parent expressed gratitude to the board, highlighting Monk's calm demeanor and attentiveness during the emergency. In acknowledgment of his lifesaving actions, the board presented Monk with a pin, even though he was unable to attend the meeting.

Similarly, Tom Maldonado, another dedicated teacher, was honored for his timely intervention just two days earlier. While teaching a health class about the Heimlich maneuver, a student began to choke on a snack. Maldonado recognized the seriousness of the situation and promptly administered the Heimlich maneuver, successfully clearing the student's airway. His students witnessed firsthand the importance of the lesson they were learning, reinforcing the relevance of classroom instruction in real-life scenarios. Following this incident, Maldonado proposed to the board that future faculty meetings include training on basic first aid, emphasizing the need for preparedness among staff.

In addition to these commendations, the board discussed the success of the recent "Caring and Sharing" drive, which collected food items for families in need, and praised the cast and crew of the high school production of "Radium Girls" for their outstanding performance. Board member Catherine shared her positive experiences during a recent visit to the middle school, where she observed engaging lessons and the dedication of teachers and staff.

The meeting concluded with a call for more staff training in basic first aid, highlighting the critical importance of preparedness in schools. As the community looks forward to the holiday break, the board expressed appreciation for the hard work of educators and the support of families, reinforcing the district's commitment to student safety and well-being.