First responders helped to facilitate a unique learning opportunity for a group of Mason Creek Middle School students recently as they put their vehicles and some of their job skills on display.

Teacher Amanda Skinner organized the event with the goal of teaching the students that firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and other first responders are here to help members of the community, so they should not be afraid of them.

“Unfortunately, some of these students only see these people in a time of crisis and when they are afraid,” she explained.

Students were introduced to the individuals who serve in these roles every day and were invited to sit in the emergency vehicles and observe equipment in up-close demonstrations.

According to Skinner, the favorite features of the event were the Douglas County Sheriff's Office Polar Patrol, which brought frozen treats, and Boom Boom the music truck, which brought the fun and festive atmosphere. But, sitting in the police car and watching water spray from the fire truck were also highly rated.

Skinner added that this is the first event of its kind that she has organized, but she would like to make it an annual event.

“As educators, we are very thankful for those men and women who came out and taught our Exceptional Wolves, and showed patience and acceptance so these students got to experience something they otherwise could not,” she concluded.