In a heart-stopping moment of bravery, a school bus driver from Louisiana is being hailed as a hero after she rescued nine children from a burning school bus. Kia Rousseve, a 28-year-old driver for Community Academies of New Orleans, displayed remarkable courage as she acted swiftly to ensure the safety of the young passengers.

The incident unfolded on March 13, as Rousseve was on her usual route, making her way to her fifth bus stop of the day. It was during this routine journey that she noticed something was amiss and immediately relied on her mother's instinct to protect the children entrusted to her care.

Rousseve recalled the bus was behaving erratically, losing power and jerking uncontrollably. Sensing danger, she quickly pulled over when a bystander informed her that flames were emerging from beneath the vehicle. Rushing into action, Rousseve ushered the students, ranging from kindergarten to eighth grade, off the bus and to a safe distance.

Despite the chaos and fear, Rousseve managed to stay calm, providing much-needed reassurance to the frightened children. Moments later, the front of the bus erupted in flames, highlighting the severity of the situation the bus driver and her young passengers narrowly escaped.

Community Academies of New Orleans praised Rousseve's quick thinking and described her actions as "courage on wheels." Had it not been for her bravery and presence of mind, the outcome could have been much more tragic. Rousseve herself has been contemplating the potential loss of lives in the incident, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.

Reflecting on her heroic act, Rousseve humbly expressed her relief and gratitude for her ability to safeguard the children entrusted to her care. "I was just glad that I was being a hero to the kids and being a hero to myself by getting them off the bus," she shared.

In recognition of her exceptional bravery, Kia Rousseve's story serves as a reminder of the extraordinary lengths individuals can go to protect others. Her actions epitomize the selflessness and dedication that lies within everyday heroes, inspiring us all to be prepared to act when faced with a life-threatening situation.

Though the memories of that fateful day may linger, the courage and resilience of Kia Rousseve will forever be etched in the hearts and minds of those who witnessed her heroic act.