At Wilson Elementary Monday morning, students, staff, and San Antonio firefighters celebrated 9-year-old Viviana Castilleja for a moment of courage that likely saved lives.
Viviana, a fourth grader, was recognized by the San Antonio Fire Department after helping a family escape a house fire earlier this year. Back in January, she was riding down Edison Drive with her family after a fundraiser when she noticed flames coming from the top of a house. She told her mom, who stopped the car. They knocked on the door several times until the family came out—and were told their chimney was on fire. The family quickly evacuated, and her mom called 911.
This ceremony included a visit from SAFD Chief Valerie Frausto, who presented Viviana with a special honor in front of her classmates in the 3rd through 5th grades. Viviana even got to try on the fire chief’s jacket, drawing cheers and applause from her friends.
She’s no stranger to being involved. Viviana has attended Wilson since kindergarten and is active in robotics, chess, music club, and the Gifted and Talented program. The school also holds a special place in her family’s story—her parents met there years ago.
This event was a reminder that anyone, no matter their age, can make a difference. Viviana’s quick thinking and action helped protect a family and showed her entire school what being a hero looks like.
