LAPD hosted school rally for 800 students from Pacoima Charter Elementary School

Los Angeles Police Department hosted a lively “Just Say No” rally for children at the Pacoima Charter Elementary School that encouraged youngsters to reject drugs, crime, bullying or joining gangs. The rally gave students a fun day of hula-hoop competitions, dancing, prizes and a fly-over by an LAPD helicopter.

Pedro Alvarez, an LAPD Police Officer and Community Outreach Officer, said, “Today was fun! I know how much stress and pressure these kids deal with daily. Today they got to let loose and enjoy themselves. They laughed, sang along, screamed with excitement, and engaged with us with no worries. That makes me feel good.”

More than 800 students attended the event on September 24. They danced to popular songs and waved up at the helicopter. But on a more serious note the students engaged with LAPD officers from the Community Safety Partnership Bureau in discussions including a pledge about the importance of saying no to drugs, gangs, crime and bullying.

One of the messages was to respect their parents, teachers and others — and believe in themselves. The children enjoyed the hula-hoop, dance contests and making drawings. School Staff Ceasar Rodriguez said, “Great turn out, besides the heat. Kids were excited and man, so many prizes!”

Second-grader Silvia and her sister third-grader Sara said they had a really good time. Silvia said, “I won a squish mellow.” Sara said, “I got far in the hola-hoop contest, but I didn’t win.” She said she had a good time anyway.

Aiden, a fourth-grader said, “That LAPD helicopter was cool. I thought he was going to crash into us, but then I saw the pilot waving.”

Myra Velarde, the school’s family support coordinated said, “There were so many kids and they all had a great time dancing and singing along.”