Teasley Teacher Recognized For Saving Student's Life

Submitted by the Cherokee County School District

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After Teasley Middle School teacher Nick Garcia saved a student’s life on Monday, he picked up his things and went back to his class.

“He moseyed on to class like it was no big deal,” Principal Dr. Susan Zinkil said of his response after successfully performing the Heimlich maneuver on a student who was choking during lunch.

Dr. Zinkil said such humility is typical for Garcia, who doesn’t seek attention, but works diligently to serve every student.

“I am so proud of Nick,” she said.

His colleagues and the student, Victoria Cantrell, and her family didn’t let Garcia avoid the spotlight. During the faculty meeting after school on Wednesday, Garcia was surprised with a special recognition.

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Victoria presented Garcia with a “Lifesaver Award” shaped like a life preserver and decorated with similarly shaped candies. She hugged him, and so did her grateful parents. Garcia’s colleagues stood to give him a standing ovation.

“Words cannot express the gratitude that I and our family felt when learning what all took place,” Victoria’s mom, Jamie Cantrell, said.

Dr. Zinkil read a letter of commendation from Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian V. Hightower, the first such letter for the superintendent who took office on Monday.

“She and I truly appreciate your knowledge of life-saving techniques including the Heimlich maneuver and your quick and calm response to an emergency situation,” Dr. Hightower wrote in the letter. “Dr. Zinkil noted that your response to this incident is just one of the most recent examples of the many ways, both large and small, through which you show on a daily basis how much you care about each student at Teasley Middle School. You are to be commended for your exemplary attitude and the ability you have demonstrated as a teacher for the Cherokee County School District.”

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Photo 1: Teasley MS student Victoria Cantrell presents teacher Nick Garcia with a ‘Lifesaver Award,’ as Principal Dr. Susan Zinkil looks on.
Photo 2: Teasley MS student Victoria Cantrell presents teacher Nick Garcia with a ‘Lifesaver Award’ to thank him for saving her from choking.
Photo 3: Jamie Cantrell, Victoria’s mom, gives Garcia a hug.
Photo 4: Garcia listens as Dr. Zinkil surprises him with a recognition in his honor.
Photo credits: Cherokee County School District