Jamison After School Child Care Team Recognized As 'Hometown Heroes'

WARWICK TOWNSHIP, PA — The After School Child Care Team at Jamison Elementary School has been named “Hometown Heroes” by Bucks County Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick.

“Each week, we shine a light on neighbors whose actions reflect the very best of who we are,” said the Congressman on Facebook. “This week, we honor eight individuals who turned an ordinary afternoon into a powerful reminder that educators are not only teachers and mentors, but guardians of our children.”

It began as a routine day, with about 20 students enjoying the playground under the care of eight staff members, but in an instant, shifted into a moment of crisis when a motorcyclist illegally drove across the campus field, heading straight toward the play area.

Without hesitation, Michelle Kane and Judy Shaffer stepped directly into the path of the motorcycle, intercepting the rider at the blacktop before he could reach the children. At the same time, Chris Cool, Natalie Lucca, Connie Valimont, Cathy Wiggins, Nancy Zartarian, and Anita Haley sprang into action, calmly moving the students away from danger and guiding them safely inside.

Meet this week’s Hometown Heroes—the After-School Childcare team at Jamison Elementary in Central Bucks School District.

Story Continues Below The Photos

Dr. Charles Malone with members of the Jamison After School Child Care team. (Central Bucks School District)

Michelle Kane and Judy Shaffer stepped directly into the path of the motorcycle, intercepting the rider at the blacktop before he could reach the children. (Warwick Township Police Department)

It began as a routine day, with about 20 students enjoying the playground under the care of eight staff members, but in an instant, shifted into a moment of crisis when a motorcyclist illegally drove across the campus field, heading straight toward the play area.

Without hesitation, Michelle Kane and Judy Shaffer stepped directly into the path of the motorcycle, intercepting the rider at the blacktop before he could reach the children. At the same time, Chris Cool, Natalie Lucca, Connie Valimont, Cathy Wiggins, Nancy Zartarian, and Anita Haley sprang into action, calmly moving the students away from danger and guiding them safely inside.

“Thanks to their courage and composure, every child was protected and the motorcyclist was forced to retreat,” said the post.

Seven-year-old Lana Maio was playing on the swings when the motorcycle came through. Her parents later described the moment as terrifying, but also a profound reminder of the trust we place in our educators every day.

“I just thank God that the aftercare staff did what they did,” said her mother, Jen.

The Warwick Township Police Department commended the staff for their quick actions and partnership in ensuring the driver was identified and charged.

“Beyond averting tragedy, their actions stand as a powerful testament to what educators truly mean to our community. They wear many hats — guides, mentors, role models, caretakers — and in this case, lifesavers. What they did was not just their job, but heroism in its purest form. And because of them, every child went home safe.

“Please join me in applauding Michelle, Judy, Chris, Natalie, Connie, Cathy, Nancy, and Anita—true hometown heroes whose courage and love for their students will never be forgotten,” said the Congressman.

The child care team was also recognized at the September Central Bucks School Board meeting for their actions that day.

“We were honored to recognize after-school childcare staff members at Jamison Elementary for their commitment to our students,” said substitute Superintendent Dr. Charles Malone. “Earlier this month, their quick action protected students when a motorcyclist illegally drove through a campus field toward a play area where the kids were playing after school.

“Two staff members stopped the driver in his tracks while the other staff members got students out of the immediate area and inside. The driver was later identified and charged by Warwick PD, and we thank the police for their efforts and our partnership. Well done to all.”