The Springfield Township Police Department has launched its latest initiative aimed at making safety an instinctive part of children's lives from an early age. Dubbed "Safety Town 2025," this program is dedicated to prepping incoming kindergartners of Springfield Local Schools on important safety matters. Over three days, these young learners engage in interactive lessons spanning from school bus etiquette to the nuances of identifying stranger danger.
A colorful array of t-shirts and backpacks provided by T’s and Things keeps the children visually coordinated and adds a touch of flair to their educational journey. The entire enterprise is spearheaded by a dedicated team of officers and volunteers including SRO Officers Ben Mars, Cory Dorsey, and Damiano Tassone, alongside Officers Austin Branham, Ty Klapp, Harold Britt, Billie Laurenti, Sgt. Joe Gaffney, and volunteer Kate Thurston. The program has hit the ground running with a variety of activities already under its belt. According to a social media post by the Springfield Township Police Department, these activities included a tow truck demonstration by Akron Coach Towing’s Jason Main and bike safety sessions led by Akron Children’s Hospital, offering free bicycle helmets to the kids.
The hands-on experience was further enriched by visits from Springfield Fire Chief Brett Reinbolt and Police Chief Jack Simone, with demonstrations such as a drone exhibition from Officer Ty Klapp and a captivating K-9 display involving Sgt. Cody Meade and K-9 Ryker. Springfield Local Schools Superintendent Shelly Monachino and Village of Lakemore Mayor Rich Cole, along with council members, have also made appearances to support the cause.
With a curriculum that is as much about engagement as it is about education, Safety Town 2025 seeks to foster confidence and genuine interest in personal safety among children. The program culminates in a "graduation" day where participants will enjoy a celebratory pizza party. Here, they will receive certificates from STPD Chief Jack Simone and Lakemore PD Chief Roy Smith, marking the completion of their Safety Town journey. Reflecting on the impact of Safety Town, the Springfield Township Police Department's post articulates its mission, stating, "it’s not just about teaching rules, it’s about sparking curiosity, building confidence, and making safety second nature for the youngest members of our community." This sentiment echoes throughout the program's multifaceted approach to engaging young minds in the pursuit of a safer tomorrow.
