I just wanted to say thank you to the men and women who serve the Auburn community in our police department. We all know the risks these officers take on a daily basis protecting us. But something I want area people to know is that not only do these brave community leaders protect us, they are also empowering and enriching our young people.

I am a civics teacher at Auburn Riverside High School and, as part of our curriculum, we have the kids participate in community activities. One option is to do a police ride-along. Over the last two years we have had numerous students ride along with officers on duty.

In every reflection paper I have read, the students always comment that the officers were nice and that they have a new respect for what a police officer does to help our community.

I am so thankful we have dedicated officers protecting our community, but I am also thankful we have officers who take time during their shift to teach and impact our young people’s lives for the better. We have even had students considering a career choice of public service based off their experience with their officer.

Thank you again, Auburn Police Department, for including Auburn Riverside students in their community in a special and unique way. Your impact is more than you know. Teaching from the classroom can only go so far, and the real-life experiences these kids gain while being “on duty” is priceless.

– Damiah Saloy