Students Inspire Officers Through Art

Looking up at the ceiling tiles on the ground floor as they enter and leave 31 Division, police officers and civilian members will be inspired by messages created by students from the neighbourhoods they serve.

“This is an opportunity for our young people and residents to be part of 31 Division,” said Superintendent Jack Gurr, of the project that started a year ago. “We went out to the schools and gave students tiles to paint with either their school logo or a nice message. When the tiles are installed in our building, we want our members to be reminded why they go out on the road to serve every time they look at those tiles. It is a constant reminder why we come to work daily.”

The 60 public and catholic schools in the area, along with the Jane & Finch Boys and Girls Club, are part of the project.

“The schools and the students were very receptive when we approached them,” said Constable Melody Carroll, who is the Community Relations Officer. “It is a chance for the young people to show off their creativity while feeling they are part of our police community.

“We are fortunate because we have a great community, which is very diverse, to work in and with. We learn from them daily, so we relish every opportunity we get to connect with them. The work we are doing in the schools helps because principals and teachers contact us to assist with students needing some assistance.”

The project, said Gurr, is ongoing and will resume after the summer school break.

“This initiative speaks to improving trust with Toronto Police,” he said. “It is about getting people into our building and making them feel they are part of 31 Division.”