Each year, NYSUT members perform acts of heroism that gain the gratitude of their colleagues and their community.
In the spirit of saying thanks on behalf of the union, delegates applauded members whose quick thinking and selfless actions protected others.
"One of the ideals of unionism is that the courageous actions of a few can have far-reaching benefits for many. Certainly, these members exemplify that ideal, and the grateful families and friends of those they helped will attest to that," NYSUT Executive Vice President Andy Pallotta said.
Robert Kuba, Indian River EA, and Kathleen Martin, Smithtown TA, were present to receive their Life Line awards.
Kuba took a loaded rifle away from a 15-year-old student who brought the gun into Kuba's science class.
Martin used cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to save the life of a fellow teacher in cardiac arrest.
Other members of this year's Life Line Honor Roll are:
- Jennifer Berie, Sackets Harbor TA. Berie donated one of her kidneys last year to a former student, which helped save his life.
- Dominic Narcisco, Somers FA. Narcisco started CPR while waiting for paramedics to arrive, saving the life of a student.