Calgary brings peace officers into Grade 9 classrooms with Beyond the Badge

The City of Calgary is launching Beyond the Badge, a free educational program that puts Community Peace Officers into Grade 9 classrooms to explore citizenship, community safety and careers in public service, the city said on Aug. 20. The program combines curriculum-connected lessons with what the city describes as real-world learning experiences meant to build confidence, teamwork and civic responsibility.

Lessons run through Social Studies, English and Health, where students take part in discussions and activities that tie classroom material to issues in their own communities. The city says the program also helps students understand the role Community Peace Officers play in supporting safe communities, and asks them to consider how they can contribute to the city around them.

Beyond the Badge gives students a unique opportunity to connect what they are learning in the classroom to the communities they live in every dayLucy Roy, Community Liaison Officer with Community Standards

Roy said that by exploring citizenship, civic responsibility and community safety in an engaging way, students gain a deeper understanding of how they can make a positive contribution to their communities.

Teachers who take part receive a ready-to-use manual developed by certified educators and Community Peace Officers. It includes lesson plans, classroom activities and supporting resources, and is meant to prepare students for a culminating classroom visit and mock interview experience with officers.

We want students to see that community safety is a shared responsibility and that everyone has a role to play in creating strong, vibrant neighbourhoodsRajdeep Gill, Community Liaison Officer with Community Standards

Gill said Beyond the Badge provides hands-on learning experiences that encourage students to think critically, work together and explore future career possibilities. The city says the program was designed to help students build practical skills, collaborate with their peers and develop an understanding of local government and community services.

The program supports outcomes related to citizenship, life learning choices and collaborative learning, and helps students understand local bylaws, explore community partnerships and develop skills for future educational and career transitions. It is offered free of charge to Grade 9 classrooms.

Teachers can access program resources and learn more about participation through the Beyond the Badge webpage. The teacher manual is available online, so teachers can review lesson plans and program materials before booking the culminating officer visit.