Dallas ISD teacher helps pregnant mom deliver baby

Lauren Carcamo arrived at Kleberg Elementary School, ready to pick up her daughter, when the unexpected happened – her water broke.

Kleberg’s nurse had no experience in childbirth, but she knew the perfect person who had it.

Bilingual fifth grade teacher Maria Pérez Caraballo worked as a doctor in an obstetrics and gynecology department in Venezuela before moving to the United States to become a teacher.

After being examined, Caraballo realized that Carcamo would not make it to the hospital in time, so she stayed with her as she fought labor until the baby was born.

“The baby was born and after about 10 seconds she started crying very loudly,” Perez Caraballo said. “It was really nice. I’m glad it’s a happy story.”

Shortly after the baby was born, paramedics arrived and brought Carcamo and her new daughter, Leire Carmcamo, safely to the hospital.

In January, Carcamo happily returned to Kleberg Elementary School with her newborn to reunite with Perez Caraballo and take a picture together.

“I will cherish this,” Perez Caraballo said. “I came to this country and studied a lot to become a teacher, so it’s like saying goodbye to those days in medicine. It was really amazing. I am very happy that I got another experience in this field of science, which I worked hard on.”

The Kleberg community credits Perez Caraballo for her prompt response to the situation. Principal Amy Zbilut says she is grateful for the support Perez Caraballo gives to his students and the Kleberg community.

“Ms. Peres goes beyond her class to support initiatives across campus and the community,” Zbilut said. “As a sponsor of our debate group, she trains our students in public speaking, restraint under pressure, and critical thinking. she participates in community outreach activities on campus that strengthen the relationship between the school and the community.”

The Dallas Morning News contributed to this report.