Red Oak Back-to-School Events & Safety

Red Oak Back-to-School Events & Safety

 

 

 

Red Oak Police Chief Justin Rhamy and Community Liaison Officer Amber Jennings joined KCSI on Monday morning to highlight several community efforts ahead of the first day of school. Most local schools return on Monday, August 24, following the Iowa State Fair.

 

The department is currently running a school supply drive, hosting a pizza fundraiser this Sunday evening, and launching a new “Last First Day Parade” for high school seniors on the morning of the first day of classes. Officials also stressed the importance of school bus safety and watching for students walking and riding in the mornings and afternoons.

 

School Supply Drive: Items are being collected now through at least August 23 at the Red Oak Police Department and at a partner pizzeria. Supplies will be delivered to local schools for both students and teachers. Monetary donations are also accepted through the department’s 501(c)(3), Behind the Shields.

 

Pizza Fundraiser: On Sunday, August 23, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Val’s Pizzeria, Chief Rhamy will serve as celebrity chef topping large meat-lovers pizzas. A special price of $16 applies that evening. Tips and donations from the night will support the back-to-school supply effort.

 

Last First Day Parade: Seniors are invited to gather at 7:30 a.m. Monday, August 24, in the parking lot of the old No Frills / former Dollar General at Third and Third. The parade will travel down Third Street, around the square, and up Fourth Street into the high school so the community can cheer them on for their final first day of school.

 

Safety Reminders: Drivers must stop for school buses when red lights are flashing; passing a stopped bus results in an automatic driver’s license suspension. Be especially alert for children walking or darting between cars in the early morning hours. Officials encourage avoiding the Eighth Street / Inman High School complex during peak pick-up and drop-off times when possible.

 

Chief Rhamy and Officer Jennings also reflected on a successful National Night Out earlier this summer. Despite rain at the start of the evening, the event drew a strong crowd and featured more than 2,500 servings of food. Officer Jennings was presented with the Don Mayer Award from the Optimist Club during the celebration.