An ordinary day on bus driver Chris Cervantes’s route halted in a sudden emergency when he heard one of his riders cry out: “He’s choking!” In the rearview mirror Cervantes could see the panic in the face of a student struggling to breathe.

Cervantes brought the bus to a stop and rushed to the student’s aid, performing abdominal thrusts until the obstruction was dislodged and the student quickly recovered. His calm demeanor throughout the brief emergency helped reassure the other riders on board, and all students were safely delivered to their destinations.

“All of our drivers are first aid-certified,” said CUSD Director of Transportation Andrew Lopshire. “Thankfully, it’s not often they’re called on to use these skills, but incidents like this one highlight the importance of that preparation and training.”

In recognition of his quick and calm response, the CUSD Board of Trustees presented Cervantes with a Lifesaving Hero Award at its final May board meeting.

It was not disclosed what the child was choking on.