A partnership between Saskatoon Public Schools and the Saskatoon Police Service is having a positive effect on both students and police officers.The Peacekeeper Cadet Program at Princess Alexandra Community School was launched in October 2014 as a way to help develop connections with students in the elementary grades.
The cadet program’s overall goals are focused in three areas: building trust; physical fitness; and citizenship and culture. Some of the broader values embraced by the program include discipline, individual goal setting, education, participation in organized sports and community involvement.
The officers leading the program established expectations for the student cadets, and students were encouraged to take initiative and ownership of the program and accept leadership opportunities. The cadets were the ones who developed the expectations that will guide the program into the future: listen and be respectful; work hard in everything we do; help each other, family and community; be a good influence to those around me; and be a positive role model.
A typical cadet meeting includes physical activity such as drill or sports, learning opportunities through speakers and hands-on activities, and a time for homework and a nutritious snack. Cadets have also been involved in events within the school including the Remembrance Day ceremony and by baking bannock for a potluck supper.
The program has helped forge bonds between students and police officers. In turn, the experiences shared by students with their friends, siblings and families have contributed to better relationships and greater understanding for both police and the neighbourhood. The officers involved share positive stories of the support received from the school administrators and students, and how the cadet program and its officers have been accepted as part of the school community. “No longer are we cops. We are known by our first names. It is amazing when we walk into that school.”
