A school support technician was the talk of the lunchroom at Rogers Garden Bullock Elementary on Monday.
In fact, Derek Hernandez has been the talk of the entire school for about a month now.
That’s why Manatee County Sheriff Rick Wells assembled a team of law enforcement to present Mr. Hernandez with one of the highest regarded recognitions for the Sheriff's Office: a commendation and a challenge coin.
Sheriff Wells called him to the front of the cafeteria as fourth graders cleared their trays of hamburgers, fruit, and curly fries.
A humble grin on his face, Mr. Hernandez accepted a plaque that reads, “Sheriff’s Commendation Awarded to DEREK HERNANDEZ in recognition and appreciation of your efforts that resulted in the saving of a life – August 2024.”
Children cheered and clapped.
It was only one year ago that Mr. Hernandez took a position supporting teachers and staff with IT and technology needs.
However, according to Principal Michael Escorcia, during lunches he walks along the cafeteria rows helping students who need a napkin, fork, or packet of ketchup.
On August 13th, Mr. Hernandez noticed a fourth grader choking on food and jumped into action.
He rushed to the boy, began performing the Heimlich maneuver and food was dislodged.
His quick-thinking actions are the reason 10-year-old Ayden stood side-by-side with Sheriff Wells and Mr. Hernandez to say, ‘Thank You’.
After a few photos were taken, Assistant Principal Krista Keats came over to read Mr. Hernandez’s plaque. “We’re so proud of you,” she said.
“Superhero,” whispered a young boy, as a carton of milk featuring Spider-Man sat on his lunch tray.
