LINDEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

The vibrant "clap out" celebration was a joyful exchange of gratitude, a testament to the strong bond between the school and the city’s law enforcement community.

The event wasn’t just a spontaneous moment of appreciation. It was part of National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, a day observed nationwide on January 9th to honor the dedication and sacrifices of law enforcement officers who serve their communities daily.

These individuals answer a demanding call to public service, often working thankless jobs that take them away from their families and place them in unpredictable and sometimes dangerous situations. For many communities, law enforcement officers are the first and sometimes only emergency responders, working tirelessly to ensure safety and security.

As the officers -- accompanied by Board President Dr. Marlene Berghammer and Superintendent of Schools Atiya Y. Perkins, Principal Dr. Sue Olivero and her staff -- made their way down the hall, the lyrics of the song seemed to echo the relationship between the students and law enforcement: “I’m only one call away. I’ll be there to save the day. Superman got nothing on me.” The music underscored the profound connection between the school and the Linden Police Department, whose presence represents not just protection but also partnership and trust.

𝗔 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗳𝗲𝗹𝘁 𝗕𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴

With nearly 500 students lining the hallways that ring the entire elementary building and uniformed officers gathered outside the main office, Principal Olivera welcomed the attendees over the school intercom.

"Your dedication to supporting our children does not go unnoticed, and it makes an incredible difference in their lives," Principal Olivera told officers. "Your partnership and commitment to our community are invaluable. Whether through school visits, donations, or simply showing your presence, you consistently remind us that you are here not just as protectors, but as advocates. Together, we are building a stronger, safer, and more connected future for our students."

Her remarks set the tone for a morning filled with energy, positivity, and appreciation for those who serve the Linden community every day, mirroring the mission of National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day: fostering trust and gratitude between officers and the communities they protect.

𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐬: 𝐀 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐬

Superintendent Perkins offered warm words that reflect on the deep and lasting partnership between Linden Public Schools and the Linden Police Department.

"Today is not only about recognizing the tireless dedication and daily sacrifices of our law enforcement officers but also about standing together as a community to show our unwavering support and gratitude for each and every one of you," Superintendent Perkins said, her words met with applause and smiles from the crowd.

She encouraged the officers to enjoy the energy and enthusiasm of the students. "Before you leave out of here today, please make sure that you just give a smile, a hug, a high five. Our School No. 4 roars and that's who we are," she said, referencing the school’s motto of pride and unity.

𝐌𝐚𝐲𝐨𝐫 𝐀𝐫𝐦𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐝’𝐬 𝐌𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐞: 𝐀 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐝

Mayor Derek Armstead stepped into the lively scene with a warm message of unity and appreciation, reminding students of the important role law enforcement plays in their lives.

"The police, they are our friends. They love us, and they're here to protect us and make sure that we're safe," the mayor said. He encouraged the students to see officers as allies and to always lend their support. "Anything you can do to help the police, you do it."

His remarks reinforced the purpose of National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day—a chance to deepen the connection between communities and the officers who serve them.

𝗕𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗵𝗮𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗿: 𝗔 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗧𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁

Dr. Berghammer also expressed her gratitude for the officers’ service.

“This is your day to shine, and the Linden Board of Education celebrates you,” Dr. Berghammer said. “Yours is a mission of love, trust, and protection. Treat those you are called upon to help the same way you would treat your family. And always remember that evil reigns when you look the other way and do nothing."

𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗻’𝘀 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘁: 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗲𝗳 𝗛𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺

The event featured the participation of Linden’s finest, led by Chief of Police David Hart, alongside members of the Superior Officers Association and the Linden Police Benevolent Association (PBA). Their presence not only brought excitement to the students but also symbolized the department’s commitment to promoting strong community ties.

As the officers moved through the halls, their smiles widened, and hands were eagerly raised for high-fives and fist bumps. The joyful interactions reflected a partnership that goes far beyond traditional roles, rooted in compassion and trust.

𝗔 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗥𝗼𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻

The connection between School No. 4 and the Linden Police Department was first forged nearly a decade ago by former school social worker Jen D’Alessio. Over the years, it has blossomed into a vital source of support for students and families.

“They’re literally one call away,” D’Alessio said, referencing the song that set the tone for the event. "Whether it’s jackets, turkeys for Thanksgiving, or gifts during the holidays, they’re always there for us."

From Cyber Safety Week assemblies led by Detective Steve Zevakaros to holiday gift drives that provided toys for over 24 families this past year, the department has become an integral part of the school’s fabric.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗹𝗮𝗽 𝗢𝘂𝘁: 𝗔 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲

The highlight of the day was the school-wide “clap out.” As officers walked through the building, students waved colorful, handmade cards with messages like “You keep our community safe” and “You’re a superhero.”

Officers returned the love with wide smiles, cheerful waves, and even a few playful fist bumps.

"This event means so much to our students," Dr. Olivera said. "We want them to know that their officers are here to support them and keep them safe. This partnership shows that we’re all part of one community."

Looking Ahead: Building on the Bond

The event was not just a celebration of law enforcement’s past contributions but also a stepping stone for continued collaboration. Upcoming events, such as the K-Kids hearty breakfast, will bring together students, officers, and senior citizens, further strengthening the bonds that tie the community together.

"This is very important," Dr. Olivera said. "We want students and parents to understand that the police are here to support them and are an essential part of our school community."