Beloved Campus Support K9 Gets His Own Photo In The School Yearbook
Yearbooks hold cherished memories for countless individuals, serving as tangible reminders of the people and moments that shape our school experiences.
However, within the pages of a particular school district’s yearbook lies a charming and unexpected addition: Detective Gibbs, a beloved support K9 cherished by both students and staff alike.
Meet Gibbs, a delightful 2-year-old golden retriever proudly serving with the Camp Hill Police Department in Pennsylvania. Since his arrival last July, he has become an integral part of the department, partnering with Officer Joe Capers, the dedicated school resource officer (SRO).
Detective Gibbs now fulfills the role of a community outreach officer within the Camp Hill School District, dedicated to supporting students and alleviating their stress and anxiety.
Chief of Police Stephen Margeson expressed, “While our School Resource Officer (SRO) was already esteemed within the district, the inclusion of Detective Gibbs has deepened the bond between Camp Hill students and the Police Department.”
“This initiative has fortified our efforts to foster trust between law enforcement and the community, showcasing our commitment to serving as allies and support systems for students,” he added.
Detective Gibbs has proven exceptionally adept in his position, earning widespread adoration from the local schools. Such is his popularity that students petitioned for his inclusion in the yearbook.
In a heartwarming gesture, the Camp Hill Police Department acceded to the request, ensuring that the lovable K9 would be immortalized alongside students and staff in the yearbook :
Gibbs doesn’t fit the typical mold of a police work dog; he hasn’t been trained for drug detection or patrol duties. Instead, his role revolves around providing support to the students of Camp Hill. According to the department, this affable golden retriever has played a vital role in strengthening their ties with the community.
Described by Margeson as a “beautiful Golden Retriever,” Gibbs serves as a furry ambassador for law enforcement, embodying a friendly presence that helps humanize the police force.
Funding for Det. Gibbs came from the Honor 25 Foundation, established by Camp Hill resident Alaine Fagan. The foundation, named in memory of Fagan’s late son—a former student athlete at Camp Hill High School—spearheaded the initiative to bring Gibbs onboard.
While most yearbooks typically feature human portraits, there are exceptions where schools have chosen to highlight remarkable animals that have become integral parts of campus life.
Among these exceptions are service dogs, such as Ariel the Labradoodle, who provided invaluable assistance to a 5-year-old with epilepsy, and Alpha, who supported a high school student managing diabetes. Their dedication has earned them well-deserved spots in the yearbook.
Additionally, some schools have found unique ways to honor their cherished campus pets. For instance, some have allowed them to participate in graduation ceremonies as a tribute to the support they’ve provided throughout their owners’ educational journeys.
It’s heartwarming to witness animals like Gibbs receiving recognition in the yearbook for their contributions to the student community. They truly deserve acknowledgment for their invaluable roles.
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