It was an emotional day for the Prince George's County community, as a local hero got the recognition she deserved. More than 100 students, as well as administrators, teachers, and community members gathered at the Glenarden Woods Elementary School for a surprise party for the bus driver that saved the lives of 20 kids two weeks ago.
When Renita Smith entered the building on Wednesday afternoon, she was welcomed by a band, and all she could do was cover her mouth and cry. She was then guided into the auditorium, where students were waiting, holding up "Thank You" signs.
"This is amazing," she told the crowd from the front stage. "I'm a cry baby. Here come the tears. Thank you."
Smith's heroism took place on Sept. 12, when the bus she was driving burst into flames. She didn't just get the students off of the bus, but she also went back inside into the flames to make sure it was empty.
"Ms. Smith saved my life," said Mikhalis Ferrier, who was on the bus. "And she went back on the burning bus to make sure everyone is ok. So I'm here to say thank you to her."
Smith was given three plaques, including one from the Prince George’s County Public Schools. She was also given gift cards, a "day of pampering" at the Cole Stevens Spa, and even a night at the Gaylord National Resort. For Smith though, she said more important than the material gifts was the fact that the kids were there.
"I didn't do it for this," she said. "I did it because that's what I'm supposed to do. I'm a mommy. And mommy's rock out for her babies."
Smith was also honored Tuesday night at the College Park City Hall for her actions on that day.
