Ex-teacher turned cop connects with Sault students in liaison role

An undated photo of Const. Lyndsey Pilkington, Sault Ste. Marie Police Service's High School Liaison Officer since November 2024. (File photo/Supplied/Sault Ste. Marie Police Service)

As the 2024–25 school year concluded, Const. Lyndsey Pilkington of the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service reflected on her inaugural year as the city’s High School Liaison Officer – a role revitalized last fall through a renewed partnership between local police and school boards. Pilkington, a former teacher turned nine-year police veteran, has spent the past eight months bridging gaps between youth, educators, and law enforcement, emphasizing trust and community over enforcement.

A role reborn: From classroom to hallways

Pilkington’s appointment in November 2024 marked the return of a full-time liaison officer to Sault Ste. Marie’s schools after the program had been halted prior to the pandemic. The position, jointly funded by the Algoma District School Board and Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board, serves five high schools, blending crime prevention with mentorship.

“Connecting with youth has always been a focus of mine, whether in the classroom or in uniform,” Pilkington wrote in a blog post reflecting on her first school year in the role last month.

Her dual background proved pivotal: “This opportunity was the perfect fit for me.”

Breaking barriers: ‘Showing up as a human first’

Initial skepticism from students – a challenge Pilkington anticipated – gave way to trust through consistent engagement.

“Policing can come with preconceived notions,” she said, but transparency and casual interactions, like handing out free Frosters coupons for positive behavior, helped dismantle barriers.

By year’s end, Pilkington noted she “exceeded even [her] own expectations” in building relationships. Highlights included mediating conflicts, celebrating graduations, and connecting students with community resources.

“It’s about more than just being present,” she wrote.

“It’s acting as a bridge.”

Community impact: Small gestures, big ripples

The liaison role’s success hinged on visibility. Pilkington attended school events, posed for photos, and leveraged initiatives like Circle K’s “Operation Freeze” to reward good behavior. Algoma District School Board Education Director Lucia Reece praised the program’s revival when it was announced, citing “stronger relationships between students and police.”

For Pilkington, the rewards were personal: “Watching this year’s graduates cross the stage, knowing I’ll meet a new group in September, reminded me why this role matters – for safety and community”.

Looking ahead: A foundation for the future

With summer underway, Pilkington anticipates her second year, buoyed by support from school boards and the police service, who called the partnership “a critical step in rebuilding trust”.

“Thank you to everyone who welcomed me,” Pilkington concluded.

“I’m already looking forward to another great year.”