National Law Enforcement Day is an important day for everyone, especially those who have family or friends in law enforcement.
January 9 is the day we celebrate police officers, courts, and correction officers for all they do for our country to keep us safe.
Law enforcement jobs are vital not only to the nation’s safety but that of local communities. Even at Bellwood-Antis, we have our own police officers to keep us safe in case of emergencies.
Starting in 2018, B-A expanded its security force to include two retired state police officers who have amped up school safety and built positive relationships with faculty and students.
Those officers are Tim Mercer and Jeff Hannah, and they have changed the way the district thinks of and provides security.
“It feels great being able to keep everyone safe and I’m so grateful to have such a great relationship with all the students and teachers,” Officer Hannah said.
B-A teachers have definitely seen a shift in the school safety with the officers there.
“I think having them here makes a better environment, and I love seeing the close bonds they have with the kids.” Mrs. McNaul says.
The officers do a great job at controlling traffic, monitoring who comes in and out of the school, and dealing with intruders.
They are very transparent with school threats that have occurred over the last several years, and they make sure everyone knows what’s going on at all times. The officers also organize and operate school safety drills involving both teachers and the entire student body.
“I believe if there was a threat, they would affectively deal with it and do everything they can to keep us all safe,” Mr. McNaul says.
It’s important to celebrate our law enforcement officials today because they do so much to ensure our safety and make sure our school is secure and safe.
