BREAKING: A 14-year-old student in Bellevue, Nebraska, has just been awarded the opportunity to see her artwork on a police cruiser, marking a significant moment for community engagement. Harper Hardin, a talented student from Mission Middle School, won a contest to design a wrap for a school resource officer’s vehicle, and the excitement is palpable.
Hardin expressed her disbelief upon learning that her design had been chosen. “I was kind of just, like, in shock, like, total shock that I had won,” she stated. Her vibrant design features a unique blend of white camouflage and purple accents, reflecting the school spirit and local military community.
The design is set to be displayed on the police cruiser operated by School Resource Officer Isaias Rosario, who initiated the contest to foster a stronger connection between students and law enforcement. “What better way to connect with someone than, hey, like, you can potentially have your car out there?” Rosario mentioned.
Hardin’s artistic inspiration came from her surroundings. “This is like a very large military community. And I thought white camo always looks sleek. So I chose that partially because of the military community, partially because it looks cool,” she explained. The incorporation of Bellevue’s school colors was intentional, with Hardin noting, “Purple is, like, Bellevue’s color. It goes really well with it on the hood and the roof.”
The contest was launched in November 2023, and Hardin was eager to learn about the outcome. “I kept asking Officer Rosario, hey, when are you guys gonna pick the cruiser? Like, every time I saw him in the office. And he’s like, soon, soon,” she recounted.
Rosario conveyed his satisfaction upon seeing the finished design, stating, “It brings joy to my eyes, I guess.” The Bellevue Police Department aimed to replicate the success of custom designs previously created for high school resource officers, making this initiative a community-focused endeavor.
Hardin is grateful for the encouragement she received from her art teacher, emphasizing the importance of support in pursuing creative endeavors. As her design prepares to hit the streets, the community of Bellevue eagerly anticipates seeing Hardin’s artwork come to life, showcasing a collaborative spirit between students and local law enforcement.
This initiative not only highlights the artistic talents of young students but also strengthens community ties, making it a noteworthy story for Bellevue and beyond. Keep an eye on the police cruiser as it rolls out, proudly displaying the creative vision of a local teen!
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops and the community celebrates this creative partnership!
