The third graders at Bradley Elementary School are learning about service animals, and on Thursday they enjoyed a thrilling visit from Derby Police Officer Jordon Gochros and his canine partner, Bear.
The Bradley students recently finished reading a story in class titled “Aero and Officer Mike,” a true story about a police officer and his canine companion.
Turns out some of the students were familiar with Officer Gochros and Bear, as they’ve been spotted while on patrol throughout Derby. Another student at Bradley pointed out his grandfather serves on the Derby Board of Police Commissioners.
Third-grade teacher Anna Van Wyck contacted Thomas DeGennaro, a Derby police commissioner about having the officer and his dog visit the school, and the commissioner was more than happy to help.
After a short talk about “Bear,” Officer Gochros allowed each child to pet Bear.
“Needless to say the students loved the program. They asked many insightful questions,” Van Wyck said. “Officer Gochros and Bear hope to visit us again in the spring!”
