Warsaw High School Educator Chris LaLonde Recognized with American Red Cross National Lifesaving Awa
WARSAW, IN - Chris LaLonde, swimming instructor at Warsaw Community High School (WCHS), has been awarded the American Red Cross Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action.
Chris LaLonde received this national recognition for her heroic response during a medical emergency in the pool on November 19, 2025. When a student experienced a life-threatening situation in the water, LaLonde acted immediately. She pulled the student from the pool, initiated first aid, directed others to call 911 and managed the scene with the student’s safety as her top priority.
The American Red Cross National Lifesaving Awards Program honors individuals who use lifesaving skills to save or sustain a life. The Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action is awarded to individuals whose quick thinking and decisive actions make a critical difference during an emergency.
“There are moments when training and instinct come together in truly heroic ways,” said Dr. David Hoffert, superintendent of Warsaw Community Schools. “Mrs. Chris LaLonde demonstrated exceptional courage and professionalism by saving a student during a medical emergency in our pool. The American Red Cross Lifesaving Award recognizes this extraordinary action. We are incredibly proud and deeply grateful for her response, as her actions prevented what could have been a tragic outcome for our community.”
“Chris demonstrated exactly what it means to put students first,” said Timothy Devlin, assistant principal at Warsaw Community High School. “Her calm, immediate response in a high-pressure situation made all the difference. We are incredibly proud of her and grateful for the care she shows our students every day.”
Warsaw Community Schools recognized Chris LaLonde earlier this year for her life-saving actions, but Chris LaLonde was surprised with the national award presentation during a Warsaw Community High School staff meeting last week.
WCS is grateful for staff members like Chris LaLonde who go above and beyond to ensure the safety and well-being of students.
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Photo Provided (left to right): Tim Devlin, WCHS Assistant Principal, Dr. David Hoffert, Superintendent; Chris LaLonde; Jennifer Sexton, Executive Director, American Red Cross, Indiana Northeast Chapter; Troy Akers, WCHS Principal