D.A.R.E.  /  Support Services

Pickerington Schools/DARE
The Department continues to serve the Pickerington Schools with School Liaison Officers. DARE is at the heart of this effort. The drug, violence, and self-awareness classes provided to our schools fifth (5th) graders build strong relationships between police, faculty, and students resulting in mutual respect and cooperation. A mentorship program continues to be a successful academic work-related program with the high school. The program provides students academic credits and an opportunity to participate and experience a future desired job profession. Officers continue to serve as guest instructors at the high school in the Principles of Democracy (POD), Business, and other academic classes. Police and School officials are proud of the interaction and relationships between the administrators, students, staff, and police. Officers Dan Simcox spearheads the community relations programs throughout the community and school district.

Community Relations
The policing philosophy in Pickerington is build around the concept of community service and relations. The concept is utilized in all of the department's activities. Throughout the year, officers and staff can be seen at local festivals, motorcycle runs, and many other local events. Chief Mike Taylor encourages his staff to participate in community activities.

Mentorship
In a cooperative effort between the department and Pickerington Local School District, students are afforded an opportunity to work along with department personnel in their every day duties. The program allows students to receive academic grades and credits while providing exposure to a field of work they may be interested in. The program remains very popular with the high schools student body and officers of the department. Typically, the school maintains a waiting list of students in participation for the Mentorship Program with the department.