In keeping with the tradition on show and tell, the staff of Hidden Creek Elementary has welcomed the careers of parents into classroom learning.

On March 16, Master at Arms 1st Class (SW/AW) Ernesto Rodriguez, military working dog handler on Naval Base Kitsap at Bangor visited the school to show off one of the military working dogs, Moses, and discuss his responsibilities.

“It’s fun to bring Moses out and let the kids know what he does. A lot of times kids think that dogs are just pets to play with, but they also have a job to do,” said Rodriguez. “It’s good to let everyone know the military working dogs exist, just in case an emergency arises, they know who to call.”

The visit gave Rodriguez the opportunity to discuss the day-to-day activities of a military working dog, including drug trafficking, to prevent trespassing and explosive detection.

The visit touched on what the students have been studying in class.

“I like having my dad here so the kids in my class can see what my dad does, and have a better understanding of why his job is important” said Arista Rodriguez. “His visit also ties into what we’ve been studying about drug use and prevention.”

All year, students in Frank Laverty’s, the classes teacher have been tying parents occupations into what the children are learning about in class.

“I think it’s really exciting that the kids have a chance to see what their parents do on a daily basis. They get to connect what they’re learning in school with what their parents do. It’s been a great learning tool,” said Laverty.