The Chula Vista Elementary School District Board of Education observed a moment of silence and heard public recognition Aug. 13 for classified staff who attempted resuscitation and supported family members after the sudden death of paraprofessional Blanca (Blanca Arroyo) at a district professional symposium on July 21.
Angela Reed, representing the Chula Vista Classified Employees Organization, told the board that paraprofessionals April Glibbery and Sofia Bueno administered CPR for more than 20 minutes. Reed also named Jennifer Espinosa and Claudia Perez Chica for supporting family members on site and at the hospital, and Rosie Alonso for directing staff and preserving the scene for emergency responders. "They stepped up without hesitation and provided critically needed support," Reed said.
Trustees and union representatives asked the board to formally recognize the staff's actions and noted the emotional toll on colleagues. The district offered condolences to the family and said support services were made available to staff and students. No board action was required; the public comments and recognition were part of the meeting's communications and public comment sections.