Grade 11 and 12 students at Our Lady Queen of World Catholic Academy (OLQW) in Richmond Hill recently took part in a guest presentation about the science of alcohol impairment. The goal was to give them a practical application of their science lessons and to help keep them safe.
The presentation was given by Constable Sian Blythen of York Regional Police (YRP), who was a high school science teacher before joining the police force. She walked students through the chemistry and biology of how alcohol affects the human body. She also explained the physical signs of impairment and the tools police use to measure it.
Constable Blythen showed students how roadside Alcohol Screening Devices provide quick and accurate readings. She then explained how infrared sensors at the police station produce results that are reliable enough to be used in court.
This guest presentation was made possible by a partnership among the YCDSB, the YRP and the York Region District School Board, which invites police officers into schools to lead fact-based safety lessons.
These presentations see YRP officers visit local schools to provide information on many topics. Elementary students can learn about bicycle safety or road safety, while secondary students can participate in sessions on careers in policing or the science of speeding. Every presentation supports topics that students are already studying in class. The goal is to give young people the information they need to make safe choices.
After the presentation, students could ask Constable Blythen anything they wanted. At OLQW, they asked about impaired driving laws, careers in policing and some of the interesting things police officers encounter on the job. These talks can help build positive relationships between students and police.
The visit was organized by OLQW Science Department Head Sarah Henson and Principal John Heinrich. Both are always looking for new ways to teach students and keep them safe.