WISCONSIN RAPIDS – The Wisconsin Rapids Police Department (WRPD) is maintaining their connection with local schools during the COVID-19 regulations which keep students at home, through Facebook video posts.

“Officer (German) Olivares and Deputy Chief (Brian) Krzykowski were discussing not being able to read to the kids in the schools and decided to use our large Facebook following to reach the kids,” said WRPD Police Chief Erman Blevins. “We have been visiting schools and reading to classrooms pretty regularly. We want to stay in touch with our little friends and hopefully do a little something to make things easier for everyone.

“We will be posting a video a day, including weekends, for the next three weeks and perhaps longer.”

Blevins said that most books are selected by the officers and their families.

“Many of the books so far have come from the officers. Most are parents and have favorites,” he explained. “We have been seeing some requests, so based on book availability we may be able to honor some.”

Blevins said that he is hoping that each officer will have an opportunity to read one book. He added that most officers jump at the opportunity and read a favorite book of their own.

The shoots take just the time needed to read the book, but about 20 minutes to edit.

“The time it takes for each officer to read their book with the occasional re-shoot. The blooper episode we are making is going to be entertaining,” Blevins added.

“We want all the kids and parents to know we are here for them and will do everything we can to help.”

Find the department of Facebook, to view the reading videos.