What began as a routine lunch period at Robinson Elementary quickly turned into a moment that underscored the importance of preparedness, training and calm under pressure.
Conner Westermayer, a teacher assistant known to students as “Mr. W,” was supervising lunch when two students urgently approached him.
“Two students came up to me. One was clearly in distress and the other said, ‘My friend can’t breathe. They are choking,’” Westermayer recalled. “I immediately administered the Heimlich. It was a scary moment for sure, but I did what anyone else would do.”
Thanks to his swift response, the obstruction was cleared. The student went to visit the nurse, and after an evaluation, the student was able to return to class without needing further medical intervention.
Westermayer credits his ability to act decisively to the training he has received through the Kirkwood School District, where he completed CPR and first aid training.
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“I’ve had training on our professional development days in Kirkwood. At Robinson, we train with Nurse Jess as part of our first response team,” he said. “Those training simulations are what allowed me to react immediately.”
Jess Hahn, B.S.N., R.N., emphasized the critical role that preparation plays in outcomes like this.
“He acted so quickly. There was no medical intervention needed, and the student returned to class,” Hahn said. “Quick intervention is key, and this is why we do the trainings. Having more people trained throughout the school empowers more people to jump in and help and have a positive outcome.”
Robinson Elementary Principal Dr. La’Kendra Garrett echoed that sentiment, highlighting the school’s commitment to safety readiness.
“Our emergency response team participates in CPR, first aid, and AED training, which includes choking response,” Dr. Garrett said. “These situations reinforce why that training is so essential.”
While Westermayer is quick to deflect praise, he sees the moment as a reminder of shared responsibility.
“Everyone has a role in student safety,” he said. “While I was the one to administer the Heimlich, it’s important for everyone to know how to handle this situation. You never know when an emergency will happen, so it’s important to participate and take training seriously. The responsibility for student safety is in all of our hands.”
Beyond this moment, Westermayer is a familiar and trusted presence throughout Robinson Elementary, supporting all grade levels with instruction and supervision. For many students, he’s a daily source of encouragement, and sometimes, a hero in more ways than one.
“Mr. W is the best,” said Oliver, a first-grade student. “If you don’t know a math equation, Mr. W saves the day. And he is a really nice person.”
