Holston View's kindergarten and first grade students took a trip to Safety Town on January 13 during the school’s first Safety Town event.
The school partnered with the Bristol, Tennessee, police and fire departments to teach pedestrian safety, fire safety, and appropriate ways to interact with service animals. Officer Mallory Berezny, Holston View’s school resource officer, as well as Officer Chesney Roark and her K-9 Sonny, represented the police department. Lieutenant Nathan Johnson and members of his team represented the fire department.
Students learned about community signs and safety and used a simulation activity for navigating city roads safely. According to Lauren Ragan, special education teacher at Holston View and one of the event organizers, the goal was to incorporate practical and functional learning with an interactive event. Approximately 70 students took part in the activities.
“Safety Town is based on our ‘survival signs’ classroom learning activity where students practice identifying community safety signs,” Ragan said. “Using visual accommodations and interactive activities, students practiced authentic and functional learning skills. We are so excited about this first-time event, which is inclusive for all students, those with and without disabilities.”
Thank you to all of the community partners and school staff who helped make this event possible!