Hillsborough County Honors Heroes for Saving Teacher's Life at Strawberry Crest High School

Hillsborough County Public Schools celebrated a significant milestone in girls' sports and recognized heroic actions during its recent school board meeting on April 8, 2025. The meeting highlighted the district's achievement in becoming one of only seven states in Florida to officially sanction girls' flag football as a high school sport, a move that reflects the growing popularity and recognition of the game.

The meeting featured a recap of the second annual "Battlegrounds" event, where Leonard High School, ranked first in the nation for girls' flag football, faced Bloomingdale High School, ranked 24th. The event drew over a thousand athletes and fans, showcasing the enthusiasm and community support for the sport. Hillsborough County is set to host the state championships in May, further solidifying its commitment to promoting girls' athletics.

In a poignant moment, the board recognized the quick-thinking actions of students and staff at Strawberry Crest High School who responded to a medical emergency in their classroom. Student Robert Herminda and classmate Abigail Alperovitch acted swiftly when their teacher collapsed, utilizing their training to seek help and provide immediate assistance. The response team, including Deputy Pedro Colon and staff members, successfully revived the teacher, who is now recovering.

The board presented the "Buccaneers Best Crew" awards to the individuals involved, acknowledging their calmness and teamwork in a life-threatening situation. This recognition not only honors their bravery but also emphasizes the importance of preparedness and collaboration in schools.

As Hillsborough County continues to foster a supportive environment for both athletics and student safety, the community looks forward to the upcoming state championships and the ongoing development of its educational programs.