(EL PASO COUNTY, Colo.) — A 3rd grader at Stetson Elementary in Falcon School District 49 (D49) who is battling terminal brain cancer got the chance to step into the boots of law enforcement for a day, patrolling the halls of her school and even activating the lights and sirens of a patrol car.
When asked what she wanted to be when she grew up, 3rd Grader Claire Wilson answered confidently that she would like to be a police officer. The profession demands an unwavering sense of dedication and bravery, which Claire possesses in abundance, even in the face of daunting challenges.
“You wouldn’t know what she’s going through by her behavior,” said Travis Cormaney, a security officer with D49. “She’s upbeat, she’s fun, she laughs, she smiles, she’s engaged, just a ton of fun.”
Claire recently got a very special opportunity–to become an Honorary Security Officer at Stetson Elementary. But before she could begin performing her duties on patrol, Claire stood before her classmates and took an oath to honorably uphold the values of her title.
Courtesy: School District 49
“These words hold true, that I will always uphold the cultural compass and mission values while performing my duties as Honorary Security Officer for School District 49,” Cormany recited, to which Claire enthusiastically replied, “I do!”
Once sworn in, Claire took a trip outside to tour a patrol car, courtesy of the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD). She hopped into the passenger seat for an up-close look at the inner workings of a patrol car, and even got to activate the lights and sirens.
“They have really awesome sirens!” Claire exclaimed.
Before heading off to do a safety sweep of the school, Claire gave fist bumps to her fellow officers, with Cormany teaching her the mantra of “be safe out there.”
Courtesy: School District 49
Officers face plenty of scary situations while they’re out in the field, but for Claire, standing strong in the face of adversity is something that’s already ingrained in her.
“She is a bright-side kid, given the struggles and the challenges she’s had to face, and is still facing. It doesn’t faze her,” said Heather Leehang, a Special Education Teacher at Stetson Elementary.
Claire patrolled around the school with Cormany, checking doors and ensuring staff had their credentials visible. And while the memories of this experience will undoubtedly last a lifetime for Claire, it also left an impression on the officers and school staff who got to be a part of it.
Courtesy: School District 49
“I’m feeling really special to be part of it,” said Cormany. “It’s hard on the heart, but to spend time with her and to see her engaged and to be smiling and just enjoying life, was incredibly heartwarming.”
