Release posted on 7-20-21 at 8:55 a.m.

The curiosity of our preschoolers is being shaped by intentional instruction, experience, and circumstance. With the growing gun violence in St. Petersburg, the Enough is Enough initiative fueled by Councilmembers Deborah Figgs-Sanders and Lisa Wheeler-Bowman continues to move past conversations using tools of engagement to educate, encourage, provide resources, and collectively work toward solutions. Realizing that this is a complicated and challenging on taking, Councilmember Figgs-Sanders says, "We must begin somewhere. But that does not mean starting from scratch. We have many organizations providing valuable resources. However, one of the biggest hurdles is equity and ease of access. Using our community to address our own needs is my hope."

Driven by the request of locally owned preschool owners who are members of Directors & Owners Reaching for Excellence in South St. Petersburg (DRESS), Councilmember Figgs-Sanders solicited their expertise in understanding the delicate development of preschoolers and how children under five years old are learning about this big world; sometimes making it confusing for them to connect their feelings to things they hear and see. Preschool owners and staff have priceless interactions with young minds during these formative years and are valuable resources to acknowledge preschoolers' impressions of life realities such as police officers and law enforcement. Preschool professionals recognize young learners need for regular reassurance, along with the support of their parents and families to keep our children safe. Introducing our youngest scholars to fun activities with the men and women in uniform, would share friendlier perceptions for all involved. It may also serve as a reminder for t he adults of what a happier world looks like. Especially as wonderful through the eyes of a child.

The Police Officer Program also known as POPs will launch, Wednesday, July 21, 2021, 11:30 a.m. at the Angels at Play Learning Center, Inc., 2001 62nd Avenue South in St. Petersburg. VPK students will have fun and enjoy the signature treats of cool pops, lollipops, popsicles, or bubbles to add to the laughter. "This is long overdue. The preschool community has reached out to different people requesting assistance with our goal to introduce kids to positive interactions with law enforcement. And now we have that opportunity. We're looking forward to working with the officers on behalf of our children," says Mrs. Arthurene Williams, owner of Kidz World Preschool and retired Pinellas Schools educator. There are 13 preschools registered for the program.

Contact: Rene Long, Legislative Aide, St. Petersburg City Council Office
Phone/Email: (727)-551-3305 or Renee.long@stpete.org