Centennial Elementary students started their day last Friday with smiles and high-fives from members of the Columbus Police Department as part of High-Five Friday.

The visit gave students a chance to interact with local officers in a fun, welcoming setting while building positive connections with those who serve our community.

“We appreciate the Columbus Police Department taking the time to be part of our school day and look forward to welcoming officers to other CPS schools for High-Five Fridays throughout the semester,” said Dr. Chip Kay, Superintendent of Columbus Public Schools.

For the Columbus Police Department, High-Five Friday is about more than greeting students as they walk through the doors. It is another opportunity for officers to build relationships with children and let them know they are there when they need them.

“At the Columbus Police Department, the safety of the children in our community is our top priority. We want kids to know that we are there for them. High-Five Fridays give us an opportunity to interact with children as they go into school. Our presence shows our commitment to their safety, and hopefully, they will see our officers as people they can go to if they need us,” said Columbus Police Chief Bret Strecker.

High-Five Fridays will continue throughout the semester, with Columbus Police Department officers visiting other Columbus Public Schools and welcoming students as they begin their school day.