Soma Majumdar, an instructional assistant at Apple Glen Elementary School, was recognized at the June 17 Bentonville School Board meeting for saving a student’s life.

Before summer break, Majumdar was in the lunchroom when she noticed a second grader struggling to breathe and successfully performed the Heimlich maneuver.

Emily Trolinger, a teacher at Apple Glen, nominated her for the district’s Extra Mile Award.

“I nominated Soma for her act of courage and quick thinking. One of our students began to choke during lunch, which was a terrifying situation. Without hesitation, Soma sprung into action, performed the Heimlich maneuver, and saved that student’s life,” Trolinger said.

“I feel so grateful and honored to receive this recognition, especially being nominated by Ms. Trolinger, who herself is an inspiration not only for me, but other staff in Apple Glen,” Majumdar said.

Majumdar said she was thankful to be a part of Apple Glen as both a staff member and a parent.

“Apple Glen is kind of a second home for me because my youngest is a rising third grader over there, but also because I have an awesome team,” she said.