TOMS RIVER-Second-grade students at North Dover Elementary School have been reading literary selections that explore the relationships between animals and people. To make a text to-world-connection, second-grade teacher Mrs. Craig reached out to North Dover’s School Resource Officer Tom Corblies to inquire about the possibility of Toms River Police Department’s K-9 Unit coming to speak with students.
Sergeant Reilly, who oversees TRPD’s K9 Unit, along with his K9 partner, Brutus, Officer Kuhluein and his K9 partner, Zuul, and Officer Broderick and his K9 partner Rooney were welcomed by excited students and staff Oct. 30. Sergeant Reilly demonstrated various commands and procedures followed by the officers and their partners. Students were provided the opportunity to ask questions about the dogs and their training.
Some interesting facts learned were that K9 partners go through extensive training, and the officer to whom the dog is assigned provides the training, and that the dogs live with their handlers when not on duty and are rewarded with play after they successfully execute the command. North Dover and its students thanks Toms River Police Department for the opportunity to witness an exciting and educational experience.