Stories of everyday heroes in public education
The work of educational support professional (ESP) in education has a direct impact on students and on the community where they live and work.
Whether it’s the help that a paraeducator gives a struggling student or the safe and clean building made possible thanks to the custodians’ efforts, their impact is felt on a daily basis.
Often, these dedicated employees go above and beyond their job duties. We are highlighting some of their stories, as told by others. Visit our site often—we’ll be updating these stories of your friends and neighbors who contribute so much to our communities.
Ric Erb goes Above & Beyond Two years ago, we had a new custodian working the day shift. After arriving at work one day, he went about his normal routine, which started in the cafeteria cleaning up between lunch periods. As he entered the cafeteria, he noticed a child having trouble breathing. The child wasn't fooling around and our custodian immediately administered the Heimlich maneuver. The school nurse arrived, as she had been summoned for help, and the child discharged the food blocking the airway. The custodian’s actions were recognized at the next board meeting. However, as with most boards and administrations now days, it didn't make the paper, even though I talked to the reporters at the board meeting about writing an article about it. (Silly me, I forgot it’s all about them, not us!) The custodian’s name is Ric Erb. He has been employed at Whitehall District Schools for five years. He is a very accommodating to staff and students. In Solidarity, Read about more ESP Heroes: Olga Gamboa |
Updated: January 20, 2010 10:53 AM