Valley Stream 24 School District Honors Staff Members for Heroic Life-Saving Actions

The Valley Stream 24 School District Board of Education and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas proudly recognized Charles Brocher and Jonathan Melendez at the Board of Education’s January business meeting for their heroic actions in assisting a child who was choking on a snack.

During the incident, Mr. Brocher and Mr. Melendez acted quickly and decisively, performing the Heimlich maneuver and successfully helping the child. Their calm response and training were instrumental in resolving a dire situation.

The district also expressed its sincere gratitude to Vanessa O’Shea and Christine Brenneis for their assistance during the incident, as well as to Principal Michael DeBlasio for his leadership and support.

“The actions of our staff members exemplify the very heart of Valley Stream 24,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “We are a community where care, preparedness, and responsibility are not abstract values but lived commitments. In a critical moment, our staff responded with calm, courage, and compassion, placing a child’s wellbeing above all else. I am deeply proud of their professionalism and grateful to serve alongside educators and leaders who put student safety first every single day.”

The Valley Stream 24 School District commends all involved for their teamwork and commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its students.

For more information about Valley Stream 24, please visit the District’s website athttps://valleystreamschooldistrict24.organd ‘like’ our Facebook page athttps://www.facebook.com/VS24SchoolDistrict#MakeTheConnection #VS24#InnovatingOurFuture