Wikwemikong Tribal Police Service Strengthens Community Ties Through School Liaison Officer Program
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wiikwemkoong, ON — October 21, 2025 —The Wikwemikong Tribal Police Service (WTPS) is proud to highlight the success of its School Liaison Officer Program, launched in August 2025, which continues to build meaningful relationships between officers, students, educators, and families in the community’s three schools.
Under the program, one officer from each platoon serves as the main point of contact for the schools each day, with a secondary officer available as backup. This ensures ongoing communication and engagement with school principals, teaching staff, and student leaders, while encouraging all officers—regardless of rank—to take part in school activities and youth outreach.
“Youth engagement is one of our top priorities,” said Ron Gignac, Chief of Police, WTPS. “Our officers and staff at the Wikwemikong Tribal Police Service are passionate and committed to making a difference in the lives of our young people, their families, and our community. Through this program, we’re not just policing — we’re mentoring, educating and inspiring the next generation.”
WTPS officers regularly visit schools to play basketball or soccer, read to primary students, and lead presentations on topics such as drug resistance, internet safety, outdoor survival, and cyberbullying. Officers also provide valuable demonstrations and learning experiences for students.
“The response from principals, teachers and students has been incredible,” Chief Gignac said. “It’s heartwarming to see our officers high-fiving kids, joining in games, and building relationships that go beyond the uniform.”
In late 2026, the program will grow with the addition of a full-time School Liaison Coordinator who will support platoon officers and expand programming. WTPS also plans to launch the Drug Awareness Resistance Education (DARE) program in schools next fall, adding another educational layer focused on youth safety and resilience.
The success of the program reflects the strength of community partnerships. WTPS acknowledges the outstanding support of Ogimaa Tim Ominika, the Band Council, the Wikwemikong Police Services Board, and local school leadership and staff for helping the initiative thrive. Director of Education Maureen Peltier’s leadership and commitment to collaboration have also been instrumental in bringing the program to life.
Staff Sergeants Kilburn, Force, and Cooper continue to demonstrate leadership through their ongoing work with schools in their divisions, ensuring the program remains a key priority for the service.
“Good things are happening in our schools,” Chief Gignac said. “We are building trust, sharing knowledge and teaching important lessons to the next generation. Together, we’re helping make Wiikwemkoong a safer and stronger community for everyone.”
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Media Contact:
Inspector Tammy Duffy, WTPS
Email: tammy.duffy@wtps.ca
