Dan O. Root II First Grader Gets Grand Fire Truck Ride to School
Excitement lit up the halls of Dan O. Root II Elementary School recently as first-grade student David DeBernardi was announced as the grand prize winner of the annual Suisun Fire Department Poster Contest!
Each year, first-grade students across Suisun City are invited to participate in the contest as part of Fire Prevention Week, an initiative that aims to teach children the importance of fire safety in a fun and creative way. The partnership between local schools and the Suisun Fire Department has become a cherished tradition, sparking enthusiasm and artistic expression from young students.
David’s colorful and thoughtful poster earned him more than just classroom applause — he received a trophy, a certificate of achievement, a commemorative ribbon, a stuffed Sparky the Fire Dog mascot, and a celebrity-style ride to school on Engine 47, the Suisun Fire Department’s fire engine.
“The Dan O. Root II community is so proud to have our young artist shine with creativity,” said Principal Larissa Sherrod. “It is inspiring to see such passion and awareness about fire safety from someone so young.”
The highlight of David’s win came when Engine 47 pulled up to his home, lights flashing and sirens cheering, giving him the VIP treatment all the way to school — to the delight of classmates and teachers waiting to celebrate his big day.
The annual contest continues to be a fun and meaningful way to blend art, education, and community engagement. As the Suisun Fire Department and local schools work hand-in-hand to teach safety, young artists like David DeBernardi are proving that the message is not only being heard — it’s being celebrated. Way to go, David!.
