Superintendent of
Perry Township Schools
There is nothing more precious to us than our sons and daughters. The No. 1 priority in Perry Township is creating and maintaining a safe learning environment in our schools. This community supported the installation of secured entrances at all schools, security cameras throughout the buildings and expanded the presence of school police officers throughout the district.
In addition to responding to calls for service and assisting at events, the officers serve as mentors for students and provide in-school convocations on topics ranging from bullying to police dog searches.
Many of you are familiar with the citywide Blue Pledge, Make Our Home a Safer Place campaign. Most of our schools have become actively involved in a variety of ways. The following are a few examples:
Winchester Village Elementary hosted a “thank a police officer day.” The idea behind this was for staff and students to show their appreciation and gratitude for law enforcement through a simple gesture: telling an officer thank you.
Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Chief Rick Hite and Cmdr. John Conley passed through the classrooms to rounds of applause and greetings. A large box of thank-you letters was presented to them, and a banner offering gratitude to law enforcement officials hangs in the school cafeteria. Children promised to report any suspicious activity.
Mary Bryan Elementary pupils and staff also took the pledge. Township School Police Assistant Chief McGavock and Deputy Humble signed a banner to show their commitment.
At Glenns Valley Elementary, children are educated about school expectations. Officer Kim Kelsay addressed children about bully prevention and possible consequences for anyone who participates in such activities. An emphasis was placed on the need to act respectfully and responsibly at all times.
Southport 6th Grade Academy played a special role in the induction of IMPD’s latest recruiting class of 100 officers. Language arts pupils wrote the recruits letters and essays of encouragement for the job they are about to do. The children also made keepsake ornaments for the officers.
A member of the women’s police auxiliary accepted the tokens of appreciation and said the officers value the gifts because they are representative of the community supporting them. “This gives them courage and strength as they face the challenges each new day brings,” she said.
Whether at the district, city or state level, we are grateful for the work of our officers; we are thankful for our partnerships with them.