January 23, 2023
Dear Educators,
The youth in your schools and centers are cordially invited to participate in the PAL/NYPD “Police Commissioner for a Day” essay contest. The contest is open to all New York City students in grades 9 through 12 only. Each participant will be required to write an essay on the topic that was personally approved by Police Commissioner Keechant L. Sewell. In responding to this year’s topic, please focus on the procedures which will enhance and improve the current situation that has been outlined in the question below, provided by the Police Commissioner’s Office. The topic this year is:
How would you, as Police Commissioner for a Day, work with the MTA to make New Yorkers feel safe riding the subway?
If one of your students is chosen as the “Police Commissioner for a Day,” they will meet Commissioner Sewell during an award ceremony to be held on April 25, 2023. The winner will also receive a $500.00 prize and a personalized plaque. In addition, the top winner’s school will receive a plaque and a $250.00 donation.
The “Police Commissioner for a Day” award is one of many awards that will be presented to the winning essay writers. The other awards include Deputy Commissioner, Bureau Chief, Patrol Borough Commander, and Precinct Commander. The winners will have an opportunity to spend a day with their top police officials.
The contest begins immediately. All entries must be completed and submitted by March 19, 2023 through the application link. Winners will be notified in the weeks following the deadline.
We have attached a flyer with the contest rules and regulations that will provide you with detailed instructions. Please make sure that your students submit their essays to the link that has been provided on the flyer. We encourage your students to submit their essays and participate in this exciting contest. For 2023 the Award Ceremony will occur on April 25, 2023.
Please contact Meredith Gray at mgray@palnyc.org or 646-357-6606 if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Carlos Velasquez
Executive Director
Police Athletic League
Mark T. Stewart
Deputy Commissioner
Community Affairs Bureau
New York City Police Department
