By: Betsy Calderon

A parent volunteer was presented with a lifesaving award during a school assembly last week at Ott Elementary.

Our Community Volunteer Leader, Becky Martinez, attended the assembly to present the Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action to John Gomez, a dedicated parent volunteer at Ott Elementary School.

He actively serves on the PTA, leads the Watch D.O.G.S. program, and is on campus nearly every day, supporting our students, teachers, and staff in countless ways. His commitment to the school is evident year-round, but on December 12, his presence became a matter of life and death.

While assisting in the cafeteria during student lunches, Mr. Gomez noticed several students urgently calling for help. A fourth-grade student was choking and unable to speak or breathe. As nearby students realized the seriousness of the situation, they called out for help.

Without hesitation, Mr. Gomez rushed to the student and immediately performed the Heimlich maneuver. His swift, confident, and decisive actions dislodged the obstruction and allowed the student to breathe again.

There is no question that John Gomez saved this child’s life.

As the student began breathing normally and the danger had passed, the cafeteria erupted in applause, cheering with relief and gratitude, knowing their friend was safe because one adult acted without hesitation.

Mr. Gomez’s calm under pressure, bravery, and unwavering dedication to the well-being of our students exemplifies the highest standard of service and care.

For his courageous actions and for directly saving a child’s life, we were proud to present John Gomez with the Lifesaving Award.

Following the ceremony, our Disaster Action Team was on-site to present a Prepare with Pedro presentation to students and staff at Ott Elementary School, helping ensure everyone is prepared in the event of an emergency.