By Mark McQueen, Bay District Schools Superintendent
It’s no secret that schools are only as successful as those who support them, and out here on the beach, we’re absolutely blessed to be supported by one of the finest cadres of first responders we could ever hope to meet. It’s worth noting that our Team of Teams at BDS isn’t just comprised of the schools, offices, and other operations under our official logo… it truly takes the teamwork of our entire community and ALL of our fantastic law enforcement partners to accomplish our mission.
While all those partnerships with law enforcement and first responders throughout Bay County are exemplary, I want to give a special shout-out to our beach teams this month. These men and women, many of whom are also parents of our students, do all they can to support and encourage our beach children.
Whether it’s a “touch a truck” event giving students a chance to sit in a fire truck or something more serious like a safety drill, our beach first responders show up in droves every time we ask them to do so. They go out of their way to interact with our students and staff members throughout the year and really do go “above and beyond.”
And for that, I’d like to say “thank you.”
Students from throughout our community have a chance to get to know our first responders and the services they provide for us, as a result of special events like Cops ‘n Kids and the fun holiday activities sponsored by the Panama City Beach Police Department. First responders help our schools provide Christmas gifts and meals for needy families and are actively enrolled as mentors in our schools.
First responders and military members also ardently support the special 9/11 events held at our beach schools. We appreciate that they take the time out of their busy schedules to help ensure our students remember the sacrifices of so many on that fateful day.
Additionally, PCBPD Chief J.R. Talamantez is the cornerstone of a critical program called Parents Against Predators, which seeks to teach parents/guardians about the dangers lurking online. Last year, in two separate sessions, the Chief and his team reached more than 600 families, and we’re so grateful for his commitment to serving our community and educating our families.
So, next time you see a group of first responders out in the community, and especially here on the beach, please know that their commitment to serve extends far beyond responding to our emergencies and focusing on our safety. We’re proud that first responders are valuable members of our Team of Teams, and we’re grateful for their continued service to all of us.
