Two Maricopa High School security guards were recognized by the Maricopa Unified School District Governing Board for saving a choking student during lunch. 

Superintendent Dr. Tracey Lopeman told the school board that Aliyah Levon and Roman Apodaca rushed to help when a student’s airway became blocked Aug. 28. 

The pair “quickly administered the Heimlich maneuver and cleared the student’s airway,” said the superintendent Wednesday night. 

“Their calm response and decisive leadership exemplify the MHS motto, victory together,” added Lopeman, as both guards were invited to the dais to be honored. Each was presented with a potted plant as “a token of our appreciation” as board members and the audience thunderously applauded. 

The district did not release the student’s name but emphasized the staff’s actions prevented what could have been a tragedy.