The Longwood Central School District is recognizing four Coram Elementary School staff members for their calm, coordinated, and life-saving response during a cardiac emergency involving a colleague.
On December 19th, shortly before the holiday break, a staff member suddenly lost consciousness and went into cardiac arrest. Teaching Assistant Jonathan DeFelice, Nurse Doreen Arntsen, School Security Guard John Luizzi—a retired New York police officer—and Physician Assistant Kimberly Little, who was on site that day conducting student physicals, acted immediately. Drawing on their training, professional experience, and composure under pressure, the team called 911, initiated CPR, and used an automated external defibrillator (AED) until first responders arrived. Their actions, alongside Principal Anthony Cavalluzzo, stabilized the individual and proved critical to her survival.
District leaders were later informed by local fire officials that the staff members’ swift and coordinated response directly saved their colleague’s life. The staff member, who is now making a full recovery, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the care she received.
“My Coram family literally saved my life,” she said. “My son appreciated everything you’ve done for us.”
“When preparedness and training met courage and action, a life was saved by our incredible staff,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Lance Lohman. “These staff members relied on their training, remained calm, and worked together seamlessly in a moment when every second mattered. Their actions reflect the type of people that are a part of our school community and are a true reflection of what it means to be here for Every One Every Day.”
“This moment reminds us that true heroes walk our halls every day,” said Board of Education President Victoria Molloy. “We are incredibly proud of these individuals and grateful for their dedication to one another and to our school community. Their actions represent the very best of who we are as a district and community.”
The four staff members were formally recognized at the January 8th, 2026, meeting of the Longwood Central School District Board of Education, where their actions were honored as a powerful example of the importance of training, preparedness, and teamwork in schools.
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