Millikin University sociology major Heather Smith, a senior from Decatur, Ill., is currently completing an internship at the Pershing Early Learning Center, an educational environment designed to meet the needs of young learners and their families. The center encourages learning for children through explorational play, expanding personal experiences and providing students with a literacy-rich environment.
Smith recently organized a Meet the Police local law enforcement educational visit at Pershing. Preschoolers met Macon County Sheriff Deputies and saw three law enforcement vehicles.
Smith says she wanted to show the kids that police are regular folks just like anyone else, and that they can turn to them for help.
"Following the recent news coverage regarding police, I felt an obligation to do something," Smith said.
The officers talked to kids and posed for pictures following a presentation. Smith said she wanted the kids to learn that police are there to help them and to feel comfortable with law enforcement officers.
"We are fortunate to have deputies who are a positive influence in our community, providing our schools with support," Smith said.
Click here to read more about the event in an article from the Herald & Review.
