Sheriff’s deputies inspire young readers across Santa Clara County
Santa Clara County Sheriff’s deputies took a break from their usual duties to promote reading and connect with children during the annual “Read Across America” event.
Throughout March, deputies visited elementary schools across the County, surprising students with fun storytimes and sharing valuable lessons about their roles in the community.
At De Vargas Elementary in San Jose, students were excited to see uniformed deputies in their classrooms. Teachers and staff at the school said it was an excellent way to show students the importance of both reading and community involvement.
“The children were captivated as the deputies read a book and shared insights about their important jobs in the community,” said kindergarten teacher Paula Ford. “This visit not only fostered a love for reading but also helped the students understand the role of law enforcement in a fun and engaging way.”
Across town at Toyon Elementary School, the Sheriff’s K-9 Unit made a special appearance, offering students the chance to interact with the dogs. The unit also read a story with an important anti-bullying message, emphasizing “K-9s against bullying” and encouraging a kinder school environment.
The deputies' visits helped encourage reading while also building trust between law enforcement and young people in Santa Clara County. Deputies traveled to schools across the County, including Rucker Elementary in Gilroy, spreading joy and inspiring a love for reading.
Read Across America Day, established by the National Education Association (NEA) in 1998, promotes reading across the United States with a goal of motivating children and teens to develop a love for books.
Deputy Aalok Patel, a School Resource Officer with the West Valley Patrol Division, has been part of Read Across America for several years.
“Reading to children is a powerful way to build connections and show them that the Sheriff’s Office is here to support and uplift our community,” he said. “This is a great way to show students our enthusiasm where we can relate with one another in a comfortable setting.”
The event was a success, showing students that law enforcement cares about their education and is dedicated to helping them grow—one book at a time.
