Dows Lane Security Guard Helps Save Ducklings in Distress
When Rich Shey – a security guard at Dows Lane Elementary School – spotted a mother duck near the top of a sewer in Yonkers on May 14, he knew her ducklings had fallen through the holes in the metal grates and into the water. He called the department of public works, which sent a crew to lift the grate and ultimately save nine ducklings.
“He not only cares for the safety of our students and staff, but his kind, concerned ways extend to caring for our feathered friends,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kristopher Harrison said.
Principal Deborah Mariniello said she was not surprised that Shey, also known to students as “Mr. Rich,” helped save the ducklings.
“Rich is very dedicated to our staff here at Dows Lane,” Mariniello said. “He is ready to help in a moment’s notice – no matter what – he jumps in. He has his eyes and ears on all things at Dows Lane. He is our gatekeeper – he meets and greets everyone who walks in our building, supports our visitor protocols, assists parents and helps to direct all to our main office.”
Mariniello said her students were proud of Shey for his quick thinking and kind act in saving the ducklings’ lives. Meanwhile, the mother duck and her ducklings were relocated to Halsey Pond in Irvington.