Chief Ryan Columbus reports that Tewksbury Police School Resource Officer Katrina Valeri assisted a Center Elementary School student in a medical emergency last Thursday.
On Thursday, Sept. 5, at about 12:46 p.m., school staff member Jennifer McNeal was approached in the cafeteria by a student who appeared to be choking. McNeal immediately attempted the Heimlich Maneuver and called for further assistance.
Officer Valeri promptly took over the Heimlich Maneuver until the student was responsive.
Officer Valeri and the school nurse then escorted the student to the nurse’s office.
The school advised that the student be further evaluated by a pediatrician as a precaution.
Officer Valeri began her role as alternate School Resource Officer at the beginning of the school year. In this position, she provides coverage in the schools when the full-time School Resource Officers are not available.
“I am overcome with gratitude for the staff member and Officer Valeri for their decisive action to help this student,” said Chief Columbus. “Officer Valeri is outstanding example of what a School Resource Officer should be.”