In a remarkable display of quick thinking and bravery, a 14-year-old Wisconsin student, Acie Holland III, saved his school bus from a potential disaster when the driver lost consciousness at the wheel. The incident, which could have ended in tragedy, occurred on a regular school day in late April.
Holland, an eighth-grader at Glen Hills Middle School in Glendale, Wisconsin, was returning home on the school bus when he noticed the driver appeared unwell. From his seat, he observed the driver's head drop and the bus veer off course, missing a regular turn. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Holland sprang into action.
He rushed to the front of the bus, moved the unconscious driver's foot off the gas pedal, and took control of the steering wheel. He managed to straighten the bus and bring it to a safe stop near the curb.
Once the bus was secure, Holland instructed his fellow students, numbering between 13 and 15, to call 911 and their parents. He then ran home to fetch his grandmother, a registered nurse at a local hospital.
The bus driver eventually regained consciousness and was taken to the hospital for treatment. She expressed her deep apologies to the students for the incident.
When Holland recounted the incident to his father, Acie Holland Jr., his initial reaction was disbelief. He thought it was an April Fools' joke, as they had been playing pranks on each other all month. It was only after speaking with his mother, Holland's grandmother, that he realized the truth of the situation.
Holland's father had previously taught him the basics of driving, which he credits for his ability to handle the situation. "We used to go down south, they put me on a tractor and let me drive it. We work on cars, and sometimes he lets me pull it in the driveway," Holland said.
The school community has since recognized Holland's heroic act. Glen Hills Middle School Principal Anna Young said, "It’s not lost on me that this could have been a serious tragedy for our school community." She added that Holland's understanding of cars, which is uncommon for students his age, was instrumental in averting the crisis.
Holland's actions have also earned him recognition from the local authorities. At a recent school board meeting, he received a proclamation from the mayor and city council. The Glendale Police Department and the Milwaukee Fire Department also praised his heroics.
Reflecting on the incident, Holland said he feels good about his actions and is glad he was able to get everyone home safely. His father expressed immense pride, saying, "We were speechless. I was very proud of myself for what he did. That was just simply amazing."
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