The hallways of Granby Elementary School were filled with big smiles and even bigger high fives this week as the Granby Police Department helped launch the school’s very first High 5’s event.

As students walked through the doors, officers lined up to greet them with high fives, creating an atmosphere of excitement, encouragement and community pride. The idea — started by the Granby Elementary parent teacher organization — is a simple one with a big impact: bring community members into the school to start the day on a positive note and remind students that their town is cheering them on.

“This is all about connection,” said a PTO representative. “When kids see familiar community faces, whether it is police officers, firefighters, EMS or Rescue Squad members, greeting them with a smile and a high five, it makes them feel valued and supported. It is a fun way to strengthen the bond between our school and the community.”

The event not only brightened the morning for students, but also showed a different side of law enforcement — one that is about building trust and celebrating kids.

The PTO and Granby Elementary School also shared how fortunate they feel to have the support of Principal Kelly Martin, who is always open to new and fun ideas that benefit the school and its students.

The PTO says this is just the beginning. Plans are already underway to invite more community groups and individuals to take part in future High 5’s events.

“Today it was our amazing Granby Police Department, but soon you might see local firefighters, EMS, Rescue Squad members, coaches, business leaders or even parents lining the hallways. The more the merrier,” the PTO noted.

For now, the first High 5’s at GES is already a success story, one high five at a time.