Joseph P. Liberati Intermediate School fourth graders, in the Southern Lehigh School District, hosted their largest Police Appreciation event this spring, welcoming officers from Coopersburg Borough, Upper Saucon, Allentown, and Perkasie Police Departments. Students greeted them with posters, donations, artwork, and even gifts for the K-9 unit.
“I loved getting to meet the police officers up close and actually talk with them,” said one student. “I learned so much. It was a really amazing day!”
Officers answered questions, showed their equipment, and gave tours of patrol cars.
“This wasn’t just a day away from the classroom. It was a moment where walls came down, understanding was built, and respect was exchanged,” said parent volunteer Caitlin Alifirenka. “Events like this one strengthen trust, encourage open dialogue, and help our students see law enforcement as approachable, safe, and human.”
Annie Snyder, a fourth grade teacher at JPLIS and the event’s organizer, said that, as the wife of a local police officer, she’s seen firsthand the dedication and sacrifice it takes to keep the community safe. She organizes these appreciation events (this is the school’s third) as a way to build stronger connections between students and officers and to help the kids better understand their roles, responsibilities, and the equipment they use.
“It’s truly exciting to see how this event has grown, and I’m proud that it helps foster such positive relationships between our students and local law enforcement,” Snyder said. “One of my favorite moments was hearing a student say, ‘I can’t believe I got to talk to a real police officer!’ It was a meaningful experience for everyone involved, students and officers alike.”
