EDUCATION KEY TO RESOURCE OFFICER

Students in Redcliff and Cypress County schools have a new face to notice
in the halls.

Const. Cindy Kovalak has come from Calgary to work with the Redcliff RCMP
detachment as the community resource officer.

Kovalak's position is funded by the school board, the Town of Redcliff and
the county, where she is to "continue the positive relationship between the
RCMP and community-based initiatives and the community as a whole."

"I see my job as educational as well," said Kovalak, adding she is involved
in many school projects and is starting some initiatives of her own.

Kovalak will be working in the schools as the DARE instructor for Grade 6
students in three schools, helping in the PARTY program for Grade 9
students from Parkside and Seven Persons school and other programs such as
the Yellow Ribbon campaign and the children's festival.

"One of my focuses (is) educating the students at Eagle Butte school
regarding traffic safety," said Kovalak.

A letter was sent out to students, informing them about traffic offences
and repercussions.

Kovalak is also hoping to bring a program from British Columbia, known as
Conversations, which involves parents reinforcing the need for children to
follow traffic safety.

A letter will also be sent out to parents of elementary school children,
offering tips for safety, and soon she will be starting the student Victims
Services Unit, where she will be looking to recruit interested people.

Kovalak said she is also plans to warn students about crystal meth.

"Meth use seems to be a concern," said Kovalak.

The drug can be highly explosive, addictive and harmful.

"I think it's important that kids are aware."

Kovalak started in her new position this August, but she said she hopes to
make Redcliff and the surrounding schools her permanent home.