"This is a better, proactive way, to battle crime in our communities... when you start talking to kids at a young age."

That from Patrol Sergeant Jason Penner who led a presentation at Winkler Elementary School on Friday. The afternoon included a mock bank robbery investigation scenario and interactive demonstrations on arrest procedures and fingerprinting suspects.

Penner explains aim was providing a positive police experience, something that is becoming crucial in crime prevention.

"It's better for us," he says. "Outside of here most of the times they're dealing with us... it isn't the most positive."

Penner notes the event paired well with I Love To Read Month, emphasizing the importance of literacy in police work.

Students had opportunities to ask questions of the officers

"There's been a monumental change in the policing world over the last 30 years about education," he says. "They say one year in the police academy is like the first two at university. We cram education into our officers."

He hopes they impart the importance of learning and reading for any students considering a career as a police officer.

"Crime is getting more sophisticated," he says, adding all Winkler officers receive additional training at the Canadian Police College including education on crime prevention and law.

"A police officer is about five different people rolled into one," he says.