Lexington-Richland School District Five and the Irmo Police Department are proud to announce a new collaboration aimed at better serving families within the district.
As part of this partnership, police officers are now equipped with information about the district’s Ready By Five program, enabling them to provide valuable support while responding to calls or engaging in community outreach efforts. The Ready By Five program offers education and assistance to families with children from prenatal to kindergarten age, with the objective of empowering parents to become their children’s primary educators and ensuring their readiness for school and lifelong success.
Jennifer Felkel, Coordinator of Family Literacy, Parenting, and Social Work Services at School District Five, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “This collaboration between School District Five and the Irmo Police will enhance our ability to reach out to community members who may be unaware of the services available to our youngest learners. By joining forces, we can effectively educate families and provide them with the resources they need to facilitate a smooth transition into school.”
To facilitate outreach efforts, police officers will carry Ready By Five bags in their patrol cars, containing essential items such as a stuffed teddy bear, a book, and a postcard featuring links to resources offered by the district.
Chief Bobby Dale of the Irmo Police Department emphasized the importance of community engagement, stating, “Our officers are deeply committed to the well-being of our community members and strive to ensure their safety and security. Partnering with School District Five allows us to further our mission of serving and protecting our community.”
For more information about the Ready By Five Program and the resources available to community members, please visit here.
