Ramaz second and third graders received an inspiring visit from NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch and Chief Richie Taylor. Of the 48 commissioners in NYPD history, Commissioner Tisch is the first Jewish woman, first mother and second woman ever to be commissioner. Chief Taylor is the highest-ranking person in the NYPD to wear a kippah. The two visitors had a powerful discussion with students about leadership and hard work, how they support the NYC community and Am Yisrael every day and even important safety tips like stranger danger.

They answered fascinating student questions, such as “How does it feel to be a leader?” To this question, Commissioner Tisch answered, “No matter what you do in your life, you will have the opportunity to be a leader,” adding that one of her biggest responsibilities for the people she leads is to “help them understand what their mission is, why it’s important and how they’re going to accomplish it. Because when multiple people work together, it’s more powerful than working alone.” Another student asked, “What are things you do to support the Jewish community in NYC?” Chief Taylor answered that Commissioner Tisch sends officers to protect people in shul during every Jewish holiday. He also told students that, when Commissioner Tisch was appointed, she spoke to all media outlets while wearing her Magen David, showing the community that she is a proud Jew and that Jews can feel safe.