8th Grade Hero Saves Students On School Bus After Driver Suffers Medical Emergency

8th Grade Hero Saves Students On School Bus After Driver Suffers Medical Emergency

A decisive act by an 8th-grade student averted potential disaster when their school bus driver experienced a medical emergency on April 24.

Today, the Glendale School District is formally recognizing Acie Holland III for his heroic actions.

Acie Holland III / Credit: Glendale-River Hills School District

Reflecting on the event, Acie recounted the moment he sensed trouble brewing as the bus started to veer into the oncoming lane.

We were heading down Villard when I noticed the bus veering off course. I glanced up from my phone and saw the driver wasn’t moving,” Acie recounted. “When she missed my stop and her head drooped, I knew something was wrong.”

Without hesitation, Acie leaped into action, maneuvering the driver’s foot off the accelerator and slamming the brakes.

“In that moment, fear gripped me, but I knew I had to keep everyone safe,” Acie stated. Taking charge, Acie safely brought the bus to a halt, dialed 911, and instructed younger passengers to contact their parents. As the driver regained consciousness, Acie ensured proper communication with dispatch.

Principal Anna Young of Glen Hills Middle School commended Acie’s heroic actions in a letter to families. “On April 24, 2024, our school community witnessed Acie Holland III’s remarkable courage and leadership,” she wrote. “Thanks to his swift thinking, a potentially catastrophic situation was averted, and all students on bus route 207 arrived home safely.”

“We are immensely proud of Acie’s compassion and bravery,” Principal Young added. “His actions exemplify the values we strive to instill in our students, and we wish the driver a speedy recovery. Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to Acie for his unwavering dedication to the safety of his fellow classmates.”

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