Officer Dispenses Wisdom at East Lake

Nassau County Police Officer Yolanda Turner served as a role model for both academics and good character as she visited students at East Lake Elementary School on Nov. 2.

During an assembly with fourth graders, Officer Turner discussed topics including bullying, cyberbullying and online safety. As students become more adept at using the internet and begin to have social media accounts, she reminded them to beware of their digital footprint and be mindful of information they post.

Officer Turner, of the NCPD Community Affairs department, also talked to students about actions that constitute bullying, and invited students up to simulate situations in school. Principal Thomas McKillop and Assistant Principal Mary Velte said that the advice shared from Officer Turner helped students understand that the decisions they make now can affect them in the future. Next year as fifth graders, they will attend social media safety presentations led by students from Massapequa High School.

As part of her visit, Officer Turner also visited kindergarten classes, where she read “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” and “Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?” Kindergartners learn about community helpers throughout the year and they were excited to see a real-life community helper. She emphasized the importance of reading, and noted that the two books were her favorites to read to her own children.