A start to the night’s routine that was anything but routine.
When Alma arrived to commence her evening shift one Monday afternoon, she expected a routine night at the elementary school she has served for more than a decade. Instead, within minutes, that routine was shattered, and her quick instincts would prove to be critical.
As Alma started her work in the teacher’s lounge, something outside the window caught her attention: two men walked past the building wearing dark hoodies and masks, despite the late August heat. A few minutes later, they passed by again.
“I thought it was strange right away,” Alma said. “Something just didn’t feel right.”
Trusting her instincts, Alma continued watching. Moments later, one of the men briefly lifted his shirt, exposing a black handgun. That was all she needed to see.
Although the school day had ended, children were still on campus, and Alma knew how quickly a situation like this could escalate. Having experienced lockdowns before, she understood both the risk and what was at stake.
“When someone is armed, anything can happen,” she said. “I was scared, but I knew I couldn’t ignore it.”
Alma immediately went to the principal and assistant principal to report what she had seen. School security was notified, and local police were called. Camera footage later confirmed that the individuals were armed. When authorities arrived, the two men began walking away from the school. And while their intentions remain unknown, one thing is clear: Alma’s quick thinking helped prevent a situation that could have been far worse.
“It felt good to know I helped keep students safe,” Alma said. “It could have gone very differently.”
School leadership and district officials were deeply appreciative of Alma’s heroic actions. In the days that followed, Alma was formally recognized by the school district and its security department for her prompt response and concern for the safety of the students. A recognition ceremony was held at the school, attended by the principal, assistant principal, district security leadership, and CCS Facility Services Account Manager Elizabeth Narvaez.
“This is a true reflection of Alma’s character and her care for the school community,” said Elizabeth. “She always goes above and beyond, and she did exactly that when it mattered most.”
Alma’s actions embody CCS Facility Services’ Service Heart mentality, showing what it means to go above and beyond, not just for the buildings she cleans, but for the special people within them. Through her work, she delivers more than service—she delivers trust, pride, and unwavering commitment to the school community she considers her own.
