A security officer at a Newburgh Elementary School is being hailed as a hero after saving a choking student during lunch. 

Balmville Elementary School Fifth grader Ariana Miranda was eating an orange during lunch when a small piece lodged in her throat.

She tried to get it out herself, but security officer Hector Almodovar noticed the struggling student and jumped into action, performing the Heimlich Maneuver on the student.

"I'm just happy that she's OK. It's part of the job, it's what we get trained to do, to help people,” said Almodovar.

The school district says all security monitors are annually trained in basic lifesaving first aid, CPR, and are automated external defibrillator certified.