More than thirty families from Geddes Elementary visited Baldwin Park Fire Station #29 on Tuesday, Sept. 11, a date that gave the trip extra special meaning as students honored first responders on the anniversary of 9/11. The tour, arranged by school community liaison Elizabeth Loera, included a walk-through of the station, kitchen, gym, sleeping quarters, trucks, and firefighting gear.
Firefighters took time to greet students, discuss their daily tasks beyond fighting fires, and answer questions for nearly 45 minutes before responding to a real emergency. They also shared how they are currently aiding efforts in nearby wildfires. Students received free educational workbooks and stickers, courtesy of the firefighters.
Geddes Elementary Principal Enriquez, BPUSD Superintendent Dr. Froilan N. Mendoza, and two Board of Education members joined the tour. This visit is one of several community learning events Loera plans throughout the year to expose students to their local community, explore career paths, and promote family engagement.