FINCASTLE â School employees go to work to educate children, not necessarily to save their lives. But theyâre trained for rescue situations, too.
That training came into play at Troutville Elementary School on Jan. 25, when a pre-K student began to choke on a hot dog. The 5-year-old was unconscious for about three minutes, as at least three members of the school staff attempted the Heimlich maneuver, her principal said Thursday. It didnât work.
Finally, with a finger-sweep maneuver in the childâs throat, Principal Steven Anderson dislodged it.
âIt was one of the most beautiful sounds ever, when that airway was cleared and that first breath was taken,â Anderson said. âIt was incredible.â
Some kids and families are finding they prefer going to school online. It’s a trend that more local school districts are picking up on and it means more options for families.