When first-year teacher Abi Richardson walked into her third-grade classroom at Amherst Elementary last week, she expected a normal day of learning — not to save a life.
During a lesson about the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, one of Richardson’s students began choking. Without hesitation, the Jackson Local Schools teacher jumped into action, performing the Heimlich maneuver and dislodging a coin that had become stuck in the child’s throat.
“I just remember thinking I had to stay calm,” Richardson said. “My students were watching me, and if I panicked, they would’ve panicked too.”
Richardson said the moment unfolded quickly, but her instincts — and training — took over. As she attended to the student, others in the classroom reacted calmly, alerting nearby staff members for help.
“The students handled it so well,” she said. “They did exactly what they were supposed to do, and that made a huge difference.”
Richardson, who is CPR certified and receives annual safety training, said the experience reinforced her belief that all teachers should be prepared for emergencies.
“We go through the training every year — videos, quizzes, refreshers — and I’m really thankful for that,” she said. “Teachers are always looking out for their students, so it’s important to be ready for anything.”
The Jackson Local School District recognized Richardson’s quick response in a social media post, calling her “a true example of what it means to be a Polar Bear.” The district wrote, “Teachers make a difference every day — sometimes in life-changing ways.”
Richardson said both her parents and the student’s family have reached out, expressing their gratitude for her quick thinking.
“It means a lot,” she said. “I’m just thankful the student is okay.”
A graduate of Canton South High School, Richardson earned her degree in education from Kent State University. Before joining Jackson Local Schools, she worked as a long-term substitute teacher.
Now, in her first full year leading a classroom of her own, Richardson said the experience reminded her why she chose this career in the first place.
“You never know what the day will bring,” she said. “But I’m here to care for these kids and keep them safe — that’s what teaching is all about.”
