Athens Students Help Save Bus Driver During Emergency

Four Athens Area Schools students are being recognized for taking quick action when their school bus driver experienced stroke symptoms on a rural Calhoun County road.

The emergency happened Thursday afternoon as the bus carried elementary, middle and high school students home through Sherwood Township.

The driver was able to pull over, but she then began losing her ability to speak and respond.

Middle school students Kynsie Wilson and Jessie Robinson stayed in contact with emergency dispatchers and helped monitor the driver.

Harmony Russell focused on keeping the other students calm while they waited for help.

Elementary student Jack Smith knew how to open the bus doors so emergency medical workers could reach the driver when they arrived.

None of the students had received special training for this kind of emergency, according to Athens Area Schools Interim Superintendent Tonia Vorce.

The district credited their calm decisions with helping prevent a more serious outcome for the driver and the dozens of children aboard the bus.

After first responders arrived, another driver completed the route and brought the students home safely.

The bus driver is recovering in the hospital, and the district said the quick response means she is not expected to suffer long-term effects.

Parents and school staff honored the four students with applause during Friday night’s Athens homecoming football game.

The incident is also leading to a practical change because the district plans to teach students what to do during a bus emergency, including how to open the doors.

The story offers an important reminder for families to talk through basic emergency steps such as calling 911, listening carefully to dispatchers and staying calm while adults are on the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened on the Athens school bus?

The driver experienced stroke symptoms after pulling over during an afternoon route in Sherwood Township, and four students helped until emergency workers arrived.

Who were the students recognized by the district?

The students were Kynsie Wilson, Jessie Robinson, Harmony Russell and Jack Smith.

How is the bus driver doing?

The district reported that she is recovering in the hospital and is not expected to have long-term effects.

Verified source links

WWMT report: https://wwmt.com/news/local/calhoun-county-students-save-bus-drivers-life-medical-emergency-athens-area-schools-stroke-middle-elementary-wwmt-michigan

Athens Area Schools: https://www.athensk12.org/

Sources and useful links: WWMT report | Athens Area Schools