EASTERN Summer Fun Students Get Educated by K9 Unit Police Officer

On July 5, 2013, Eastern Center for Arts and Technology (EASTERN) “Crime Scene Investigation” (CSI) Summer Fun program students received a visit from Police Officer Dave Parke of the Septa Transit Police Department K9 unit, and an EASTERN 1988 Automotive Technology graduate. He discussed the use and training of dogs in high-risk stations that would normally require two officers.These teams are essential in explosive (bomb) detection as well as reducing felony crimes. At the end of his presentation, Officer Parke brought in his police dog, Zazu, for a demonstration.

Officer Parke joined the Septa Transit Police Department in 1994, and has been a part of the K9 unit since 1998. He spoke to the EASTERN CSI students about the K9 unit and the process for training these dogs for patrol. He showed several video reenactments of situations in which the main officer called out specific commands and how the highly trained animal responded to those commands. CSI students had the unique experience of watching Officer Parke demonstrate commands with his own patrol dog.

“There are several students in my class who are interested in this area of law enforcement,” said George Stahl, EASTERN CSI Instructor. “This was a great opportunity to hear about the field first-hand and get all of their questions answered. We truly appreciate Officer Parke volunteering his time to educate our students.”

EASTERN is a public school serving students in nine Eastern Montgomery County school districts.Those districts include Abington, Bryn Athyn, Cheltenham, Hatboro-Horsham, Jenkintown, Lower Moreland, Springfield, Upper Dublin and Upper Moreland. Students benefit from specialized career programs that give them a competitive edge in college or in a career. The campus is at 3075 Terwood Road in Willow Grove. For more information, please contact Amy Shields, Organizational Advancement Director, at 215-784-4806, or visit the school’s website at www.eastech.org. Like Us?Become a fan on Facebook – www.Facebook.com/EasternCenter