It was another exciting day at Eatontown Public Schools! On Friday, May 31, 2024 EPS sixth grade students celebrated their L.E.A.D Graduation. L.E.A.D stands for Law Enforcement Against Drugs. L.E.A.D instructor Officer Ryan Hennelly, his team, and community organizations planned an action-packed day.
Our L.E.A.D graduates started their day at Memorial Middle School, where they shared with families what they learned since their program first started in February. Everyone commemorated Officer Ryan Hennelly’s last year in L.E.A.D. Students shared the impact of the program, including Officer Hennelly’s and Officer Michael Sullivan’s time with them. The ceremony ended with a laughter-filled slideshow of pictures presenting their time together.
Students then traveled to Margaret L. Vetter School’s field where they enjoyed a BBQ and Chick-Fil-A lunch. The Chick-Fil-A mascot even came for a visit! Students signed each other’s L.E.A.D t-shirts, met first responders, and soaked in the sun for their picnic. Land Rover of Monmouth and Audi of Eatontown showcased their top of the line vehicles for students to see.
After lunch, students watched as a New Jersey State Police Helicopter safely landed. They met helicopter pilots Corporal Brown and Corporal Clark. L.E.A.D graduates asked about their role in the New Jersey State Police, their training, and saw the helicopter up close.
The afternoon continued with Officer Remedios and his K9, Ozzy, from the Long Branch Police Department. Students observed how Ozzy listens to commands, learned about his breed, and the importance of police dogs. Ozzy performed a few tricks!
Everyone enjoyed a sweet treat from Rita’s of Neptune.
To wrap up a fun-filled day, students made their way into the Margaret L. Vetter School gym, where L.E.A.D gifted each student with items such as bags, sunglasses, and water bottles. Students entered a raffle with impressive items such as, Chromebooks, an xBox, bicycles, and more!
EPS sincerely thanks Officer Hennelly, Officer Sullivan, the Eatontown Police Department, the New Jersey State Police, Margaret L. Vetter School Staff, and everyone who participated to make this a memorable L.E.A.D graduation for our students. L.E.A.D graduation has kicked off the end of the school year traditions and we are so excited to celebrate our students.
