Pre-K Students Visit with EBRSO Officer

Submitted by Joy Lonibos, Pre-K Teacher at St. Alphonsus Catholic School

Lt. Don Dartez of the East Baton Rouge Sheriff's Department visited with St. Alphonsus Pre-Kindergarten students on January 7. The students wrapped up a unit on Community Helpers and Dartez's visit gave the children an opportunity to get up close and personal with a policeman. These young children had quite a variety of questions for Lt. Dartez, such as, "Do you have a police dog?" and "Have you always wanted to be a policeman?" They were eager to talk about his uniform, badge, police car and of course, his gun. Dartez explained to the children that policemen are always there to help and that children should never be afraid of a police officer. He discussed everything from seat belt safety to school bus safety, and school security to bicycle safety. He also had a discussion with the young students about guns and being certain that they never touch them, nor bring them to school.  Lt. Dartez is always a great addition to our Community Helpers Unit. He relates well to the children and does a wonderful job answering their questions.