Yesterday, we kicked off another multi-day Books & Badges event that brought together three amazing Columbus Division of Police police officers and local students. It was a day of enchanting stories and memorable experiences at Lindbergh Elementary School on the West Side.
Highlights of the day included:
1️⃣ Officer Antionette Hysell mesmerized first graders with her reading of "The Caring Me I Want to Be." She read the book through once, then read it through again, showcasing her incredible speed reading skills that left the children wondering if she could set world records!
2️⃣ Officer Brian Carter and his talented K-9 partner, Odja, captivated fifth graders with fascinating animal facts from "Truths and Myths About Weird Animals." Students were also treated to information about K-9s and a jaw-dropping demonstration of Odja's kangaroo-like jumping abilities! (Odja, meanwhile, was thrilled with the smells coming from the kids' lunch boxes.)
3️⃣ CPD Lieutenant and Starfish Board Member Chris Lieb brought smiles to kindergartners as he read "If You Give a Pig a Party." To top it off, each child received a party hat, making the experience even more festive!
The day was filled with joy, laughter, and learning about policing. Best of all, every child went home with a copy of the book their officer read, ensuring the magic of the day will live on.
We're looking forward to more unforgettable Books & Badges events in the future. One child said this was the best day he ever had at school. This isn't the first time we've heard this, but it still brings tears of gratitude to our eyes. We're so happy to be able to play a part in bringing the police and the community together like this.
