Teacher steps up to save students

Jimmy Carter Middle School physical education teacher Chemaey Romero knew something was wrong on March 2, when she noticed that a white car weaving in and out of traffic was headed straight for a group of eight students trying to cross the street after school.

Romero, also a coach at Jimmy Carter, knew she needed to act fast. She ran and pushed the students out of the way, getting struck by the white car in the process. The driver of the car later told police he had been drinking.

“I didn’t think about who was around me. I just knew the car was coming fast and I had to do something,” Romero said in a phone interview. “… I just thought I have to get these kids out of the way.”

Romero was struck from behind and suffered fractured ribs, as well as pelvis and lower back injuries. She said the driver, Andrew Madrid, 40, was picking up his nephew from the school.

When police questioned Madrid, he told them he had been drinking and had consumed at least a 12-pack, according to a criminal complaint. He was arrested for his second DWI and reckless driving.

Romero, who is back on the job, said she isn’t angry with Madrid, just thankful none of her students was hurt and that his nephew didn’t get into the car with him.

“I’m not a hero or anything. I would have rather it be me, and I’m just grateful nothing happened to the younger kids because they are just starting out their lives,” Romero said.

Editor’s note: We want to recognize teachers, students, parents or others who make a difference in your child’s education. Send suggestions to Ellen Marks at emarks@abqjournal.com.