By Jesiree Carrera – Editor-In-Chief

Naugatuck Chief
of Police Christopher Edson, and former forensic detective Mike DeGrego recently visited Jonathan Law’s Crime and Violence classes to inform the students further about the truth behind their studies.

Both visitors have had much experience in their fields with many different stories to tell the students. They excited the students with their thrilling tales of their past escapades in the workforce.

“I think students got to hear first hand from someone in the field what it is really like,” said Crime and Violence teacher Mr. Batson. “Furthermore, these experts could answer questions and tell stories that Mrs. Rowley and I could not.”

Students prepared for the visits by writing down questions to ask the speakers. Some students had to find a way to hear both speakers due to the different days the guests were invited.

Edson came in during a period eight block while DeGrego came in during a period five block. Both speakers presented to the class in Batson’s room, where they got to utilize the board as well as interact with the students.

“I think it is valuable for high school students to have an opportunity to interact with law enforcement officials in a classroom setting because it provides them a unique opportunity to ask questions and receive insightful information about how and why police officers conduct their business in the community,” Edson said. “Whether they are considering a future career in law enforcement or just curious, hopefully some of the information they obtained will help them to be better citizens.”

DeGrego, who is also on the Board of Education, has a similar opinion when it comes to student interaction.

“I worked at Mount Vernon High School as well as on the Mount Vernon New York Police Department, so I saw some students of mine in our stations sometimes and I just wonder why they’re there,” DeGrego said. “Students are our future, and I’m glad to be able to speak to the class because I can show them the examples and help them to further their success while ensuring that they do not end up in our police stations for the wrong reasons.”

The questions that the students posed impressed both Batson and the guest speakers as they were attentive and relevant to the course study. The students were very enthusiastic to hear the stories and interested in the truth about the law enforcement workforce.

“Sometimes, it can be helpful in understanding what is taught in the classroom to see how those principles and concepts are applied in the real world,” Edson said.

With the added knowledge and the real life stories told by the visitors, the Crime and Violence students can now grasp the reality behind law enforcement and the processes. As the course continues over the next few years, Edson and DeGrego hope to return to provide more insight and knowledge for Jonathan Law students.

(Photos courtesy Jesiree Carrera)