At HongDe Elementary, fostering a safe and supportive environment for our students is a top priority. This week, we had the privilege of welcoming a Vancouver Police Department (VPD) community officer back to our school for an engaging and educational session about safety.

The officer’s visit marked an exciting follow-up to last year’s visit, and it was packed with practical tips, important lessons, and plenty of opportunities for our students to ask questions.

Key Takeaways from the Visit

The VPD officer focused on essential safety topics to empower our students with knowledge and confidence.

What to Do If You Feel Uncomfortable

• Create Distance: Move away from the person or situation that makes you feel uncomfortable.
• Find a Trusted Adult: Approach an adult you trust and share what’s happening.
• Seek a Safe Space: If you feel like someone is following you, go into a nearby store, school, or other public place for help.

When to Call 911

The officer explained that 911 should only be used for emergencies, such as:

• Medical emergencies
• Car accidents
• Situations involving danger

They emphasized that calling 911 mobilizes significant resources and should be reserved for urgent situations.

Safety Tips

• School Bus Safety: The officer shared valuable advice on staying safe while traveling to and from school.
• Internet & Video Gaming Safety: Students learned how to navigate online spaces responsibly and protect their digital well-being.

Q&A Session: Curiosity Meets Community

Our students asked insightful questions about police work, how emergencies are handled, and what it takes to be a police officer. The engaging discussion highlighted the importance of community relationships and safety awareness.

Why This Matters

At HongDe, we strive to create opportunities for our students to learn from real-world experiences. Visits like these help our students build trust with local community members while gaining knowledge about safety and well-being.

Thank You, VPD!

At the end of the visit, our students gave the officer Christmas and thank-you cards they had prepared. The cards included kind messages, drawings, and warm holiday wishes. This gesture showed their appreciation for the officer’s time and dedication. It also reflected the values of kindness and gratitude we teach at HongDe. The exchange brought smiles to everyone and strengthened the connection between our school and the Vancouver Police Department.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Vancouver Police Department for their continued dedication to educating our students and ensuring our community’s safety.