Chester Rotary supports COPS program for local fifth graders

Chester Police Chief Bobby Helmers was the guest speaker at the Feb. 20 meeting of the Chester Rotary Club, where he discussed the local COPS program (Challenging Ourselves In Promoting Safety) which is taught to all fifth grade students at Chester Elementary School, St. Mary's Catholic School and St. John Lutheran School.

The 14-week program, now in its sixth year, is reaching 128 students this year. Helmers designed the program at the request of local schools, following the defunding of the previous DARE program.

Curriculum includes education and awareness of the dangers of drug abuse, gang awareness, stereotyping and discrimination. In addition, the students are taught First aid, internet safety and active shooter training.

They receive a two-day bike safety program where each student receives a free bike helmet and T-shirt. Students particularly enjoy the police K-9 demonstration and an end-of-program party at the city park.

Helmers said that through the COPS program, he believes strong, nurturing relationships are built between students and the police.

The COPS program receives no local funding, other than through fundraising efforts and charitable donations. The Chester Rotary presented Helmers with a check for $100 for the cause.

A special visitor at the Feb. 20 meeting was Rotarian Joe Tanner of Steeleville who will become Asst. Governor of Rotary District 6510 on July 1. Tanner spoke about his goals for his term and encouraged local officers to set goals and to strive to meet them.