Elizabeth Public Schools and the Elizabeth Police Department held an orientation at Juan Pablo Duarte-José Julián Martí School No. 28 to kick off their latest partnership, a mentoring program co-sponsored by the two organizations.  The EPS-EPD mentorship program will provide a unique opportunity for EPS students to connect with our local law enforcement professionals.

Throughout the remainder of the school year, EPD officers will engage with EPS students to help them develop patience, persistence, and other social emotional skills. Students will participate in educational and interactive sessions to foster positive relationships, promote civic responsibility, and improve in many key academic and social emotional development areas. The program currently includes students from George Washington Academy of Science & Engineering No. 1, Jerome Dunn Academy of Mathematics Technology & Arts No.9, Benjamin Franklin School No. 13, Sonia Sotomayor School No. 25, and School No.28.

Among those to speak to students and parents at the orientation were Elizabeth Board of Education President Charlene Bathelus Dorgely, EPS Superintendent Olga Hugelmeyer, EPS Director of Student Services Anthony DiDonato, and EPS Acting Supervisor of Guidance Melanie Padilla along with several members of the Elizabeth Police Department.