Parents of Sixth Grade Students

Steve Luther Elementary School

4631 La Palma Avenue

La Palma, CA 90623

Dear Parents,

I would like to take this opportunity to introduce you to Corporal Les Parsons of the La Palma Police Department’s Administrative Support Bureau. Starting on April 12, 2011 he will be visiting each of the sixth grade classes for eight weeks to introduce a new student safety education program called Police Interaction with Youth (PIY). PIY was designed by the Police Department as a decision making program to educate sixth graders about those laws that are relevant to their age (bicycle helmets, riding scooters, truancy, etc.) and provide them with the ability and motivation to make proper choices when faced with peer group pressure. PIY will also inform sixth grade students about playground and gang violence and provide the students with conflict resolution skills and general safety information. Corporal Parsons will discuss how to develop positive self esteem and the negative consequences associated with controlled substance and alcohol abuse.

La Palma Police Officers serve as positive role models for children and are obviously well versed on the subject matter to be taught. More over, relating to students in a classroom setting helps to develop a rapport that promotes positive attitudes towards the police and a greater respect for authority in general. Attached to this letter is a brief description of the courses being provided to the students.

I feel that schools, law enforcement and the community are important components of the partnership needed to help the PIY program achieve its goals. The other and most important component is the child’s parents and guardians involvement in the program. The Police Department looks forward to working with you and your child during the school year to discuss a variety of issues.

I also personally invite each parent to visit and observe any of the eight classroom sessions being provided to the students. If you have any questions or comments regarding this program, please contact Corporal Les Parsons at (714) 690-3385.

Sincerely,

Eric Nunez

Chief of Police

POLICE INTERACTION WITH YOUTH CURRICULUM

Legal and Illegal Drugs/ Drug Abuse

Peer Pressure and How to Handle It

Strategies for Dealing with Stress

Internet Safety

Gangs/ Bullying

Local Laws Relating to Youth

Bicycle Safety

Fire Safety