During his visit to Sherrard Elementary this morning, School Resource Officer and Rock Island Co. Deputy Mike Mendoza made fast friends with Kindergarten student Bentley Bautista.
Bautista has been dressing up daily with a friend, donning a police hat and jacket and playing ‘police’ at recess.
Impressed by Bentley's consistent dedication, Deputy Mendoza deputized Bentley for the day, leaving his badge in the hands of the young enthusiast for the day.
This special interaction not only made Bentley's day but also exemplified the positive connections that School Resource Officers can foster within the school community.
