Firefighters, utility workers, a state trooper and a sheriff’s deputy – all were guests of honor in Pre-K at Tharptown recently.

“It’s not actually in the curriculum – it doesn’t have to be covered,” said teacher Monica Elliot.  “But this year we chose to bring in some people from the community to talk to the kids.”

Elliot said she “just wanted them to know some different jobs out in the community.”

Students got to interact with “community helpers” from the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Franklin County Electric Department, Tharptown Volunteer Fire Department and the Alabama State Troopers.

“They loved it,” Elliot said.

Hannah Hallmark, auxiliary teacher, agreed. “They were so excited,” she said. “I thought it was awesome.

The 18 children, 4-5 years old, especially loved the vehicles – the bucket truck, fire truck, deputy vehicle and unmarked car. “They would immediately go to the window to see what they were driving,” Elliot said.

Elliot said the special visits are definitely something she hopes to do again next year, and she’d even like to expand it, inviting other professionals to participate: doctors, dentists, farmers, veterinarians and the mayor.

“We put a lot of work into it, and they enjoyed it,” Elliot said.