Superintendent of Perry Township Schools
Perry Township Schools police are busy every day keeping our students and schools safe. As with any public servant, building relationships with the community and students is a vital part of their job. No matter the background, age or gender of individuals, these relationships help us to understand one another.
The Perry police recently discussed ideas how to make an impact on students’ lives. The police wanted the students to know that they are people too, so they invited preschoolers to a tricycle-bicycle race.
Since there is a little child in all of us, the officers thought a race would be a wonderful way to make a connection with the children. The officers packed up their bikes and took them to the track at Southport High School, and the preschoolers rode their tricycles to the track. Everyone took turns to race the officers: Alexandro Hernandez, Anthony McGavock, Tom Nolan, Lucas Quinlin and Sabrina Tharpe.
The children had a lot of fun interacting with the officers. The day was a huge success as the officers and students raced back and forth on their bikes. Even the principal participated.
With a lot of smiles, high-fives and expressions of gratitude, this idea will now turn into an annual event. Our officers not only made a difference on this day but they made a positive and long-lasting impression on the children, one that will still be with them when they graduate from high school.
The officers are professionals who are trained that communication skills are a key part of their job. By communicating with a person on their level and understanding that person, the officers can make a difference in students’ lives. This is not only true for public servants but all of as we go through life.
Communicate with others, whether you know them or not, because you never know the difference those words or actions can make in a person’s life.