A 911 dispatcher is being praised for staying on the phone after a boy called to say he “had a really bad day” and had “tons” of homework.
The boy, who hasn’t been named publicly, told Antonia Bundy, the Lafayette Police Department dispatcher, that he was struggling with math homework.
The department released audio of Bundy calmly helping the student out with his homework.
With her help, the boy was able to solve the problem.
“I’m sorry for calling you, but I really needed help,” he said.
“Our dispatchers never know what the next call might be. They train for many emergency situations, homework help is not one they plan for. We don’t recommend 911 for homework help but this dispatcher helped a young boy out and brightened his day,” the Lafayette Police Department said in a post on Twitter.
“When a young child calls to ask for homework help, Antonia didn’t miss a beat,” it added later.
“We get a lot of unusual call requests but this one kind of stood out,” Lafayette Police Sgt. Matt Gard added to ABC 7.
Officials said that Bundy, who has been a dispatcher since April 2016, is a hard worker.
“She’s very much a dedicated employee, it doesn’t surprise us that she goes above and beyond on a regular basis,” said Gard.”
Our dispatchers never know what the next call might be.They train for many emergency situations, homework help is not one they plan for. We don’t recommend 911 for homework help but this dispatcher helped a young boy out and brightened his day.@PoliceOne @apbweb @wlfi @WTHRcom pic.twitter.com/w3qCYfJP7O
— LafayetteINPolice (@LafayetteINPD) January 25, 2019
Praise From Twitter Users
After the audio was posted, a number of Twitter users praised Bundy.
“That’s my Daughter in law!! Blessed Mother in law to have such a loving and caring Daughter in law, Antonia is beautiful inside and out!” said one user.
“This is wonderful. I know the dispatcher was aware of other emergencies and would not have been able to take the time if there were things more pressing. I’m glad she did. You can save a life by giving pre-arrival CPR instructions, but you can also save one this way,” said another.
This is the most touching stories I have ever read. It’s rare now days to hear stories such as this one, mainly its horror stories. Thank you for making a young mans day.
— Danar63 (@danar63) January 28, 2019
Great job Ms. Bundy! Not a typical 911 call, but your kindness and compassion showed in a wonderful way and reflects great credit on the Lafayette Police Department! We love our law enforcement! Be safe! ????????????
— Dave Hayes (@20WIN12) January 28, 2019
“911 is the center of all emergencies. This dispatcher clearly understands that it may not be an emergency to us but it is to somebody. Great job helping this very stressed young man in his time of need,” said another.
“We need more people in the world like you ma’am. Thank you for having a kind,” added another.
“Suicide rates in kids are raising and the pressure from everyone (ie parents, teachers etc.,) to succeed is as well. This lady probably helped save this kid life… Well Done!!” added yet another.
“That was extra sweet! I commend the operator for helping the young man and not being mean and snapping out on him! You have a great Heart!” said another user.