It was another home run with fun had by all at the 15th annual community baseball challenge of police and social services versus students at Apex Secondary on Thursday at Brown Road Park.
Following a barbecue, Langley officers, many from the youth section, along with probation officers and staff from Aldergrove Neighbourhoood Services took to the diamond for a competitive game of baseball. As with last year’s game, Apex won.
“It’s a whole school event, with over 20 kids involved today,” said Principal Susanna Eppich.
For the officers, the day is a chance to have some fun with the kids and build relationships.
Some from the alternative school have met these officers, whether police or probation in less positive circumstances. This is an opportunity to break down some of those barriers.
“For us, this is another way to celebrate being a community,” said Eppich. “That’s what Apex is about.”
Apex offers alternative schooling to students who don’t work well with conventional classes.
“Kids are self-referring to Apex which I think says a lot about what we can offer them,” said Eppich. Apex has a strong aboriginal program and offers a lot of support around learning.
“When health and home aren’t ideal, the school can step up and be there for some of these students who need that,” she said.