Smith County Precinct 1 Constable’s Office has announced a new program, “Precinct 1’s Little Champions,” designed to recognize elementary students for their positive contributions within their schools and communities. The initiative, which will focus on elementary students, aims to highlight children who demonstrate exemplary character and efforts to improve their learning environments in Tyler.
The program was developed within the Constable’s office, with Chief Deputy Carolyn Brown and Administrative Assistant Ashante Warren credited for its origination. According to a release from Smith County, “Precinct 1’s Little Champions” is specifically structured to “celebrate elementary students who make positive choices, show kindness, treat others with respect, lead by example, or help make their school a better place.” This approach emphasizes cultivating a positive environment by acknowledging the daily actions of young residents that foster a better community.
Constable Ralph Caraway Jr. affirmed that his precinct encompasses 13 elementary schools within the Tyler Independent School District. This significant reach allows the program to directly engage with a substantial portion of Tyler’s youth. Caraway stated that a key objective of the program is to reshape public perceptions of law enforcement, remarking, "We don’t want to be known as the big, bad police. We want to change the narrative." This indicates a deliberate effort by the Constable’s Office to build positive relationships with younger generations and their families through community-oriented initiatives.
To support the recognition efforts, Whataburger has contributed $568 worth of certificates to the Constable’s Office. This donation was officially noted in the Smith County Commissioners Court Agenda for October 13, highlighting how local businesses are partnering with public safety agencies to support community programs. These certificates will serve as a tangible form of recognition for the elementary students identified as "Little Champions," reinforcing the value of their positive actions.
The program's motto, “Recognizing Character. Celebrating Champions,” encapsulates its core mission. By identifying and celebrating students for their acts of kindness, leadership, and respect, the Smith County Precinct 1 Constable’s Office is establishing a formal mechanism to encourage positive behavior and strengthen ties between law enforcement, schools, and the wider community in Smith County. The ongoing recognition of these young individuals underscores a commitment to fostering positive character development from an early age, contributing to a more engaged and respectful local environment.
