A new presence at FASD, Officer Thomas Liberty, arrived on Jan. 2.
Students of Freedom High School are curious about the purpose behind Liberty’s arrival to the district. He has had 13 years of experience with the New Sewickley Police Department as a police officer, as well as working part time in other departments and as a 911 dispatcher for Beaver County in emergency services.
Officer Liberty has been placed in the district as a resource officer and as a presence in the school, as well as an educator. Additionally, should an issue arise at one of the schools, he would be one of the first responders.
He also has connections with many resources, including lawyers and district attorneys. As mentioned on DTV, he will be starting a club for those interested in law enforcement.
Liberty will be based in the high school, though he will be working throughout the whole district.
“It will be easier for him when everything is on one campus,” Principal Timothy Dadich said.
Liberty will be at the high school and middle school campus in the morning, the high school for lunch, elementary schools in the early afternoon and at the high school at the end the dayto lead the Junior Police Academy during AAP.
“One of the things that drew me to this position is helping students with their futures,” Liberty said. “…although there has never been an incident, I believe I can prevent anything from arising.”
From his perspective, many people fear the police, but he hopes that by having a daily interaction with the students and staff, they will learn that police officers care about their well-being and that there is nothing to be frightened by.
The Junior Police Academy will be starting up soon for anyone in grades 9-12 who is interested. These meetings will take place anywhere from one to three times per week, discussing topics such as how to become a police officer, different aspects of the job and having guest speakers. In addition, Liberty will be meeting with those students who will be attending the prom in May, having AAP meetings with the school discussing cyber safety, civility and drug influence on an as needed basis.
“I think he is the perfect guy for the job,” Dadich said.