BREAKING: A 14-year-old student from Bellevue, Nebraska, has made headlines after winning a contest to design a wrap for a local police cruiser. Harper Hardin from Mission Middle School expressed her shock and excitement upon learning her design would soon be seen cruising the streets.
Hardin’s design, featuring white camouflage with purple accents, reflects the unique spirit of the Bellevue community. “I was kind of just, like, in shock, like, total shock that I had won,” Hardin stated. The choice of colors pays homage to the area’s strong military presence while incorporating the school colors of Bellevue. “Purple is, like, Bellevue’s color. It goes really well with it on the hood and the roof,” she added, highlighting the community’s influence on her artistic vision.
The police cruiser, which serves all three middle schools in Bellevue, will be driven by School Resource Officer Isaias Rosario. Rosario initiated the contest as a creative way to foster connections between students and law enforcement. “What better way to connect with someone than, hey, like, you can potentially have your car out there?” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of community engagement.
Hardin submitted her design in November 2023 and eagerly awaited the outcome, frequently checking in with Rosario for updates. “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 recalled, reflecting her determination and enthusiasm throughout the process.
Seeing Hardin’s finished design has brought joy to Rosario. “It brings joy to my eyes, I guess,” he stated, validating the success of the initiative. The Bellevue Police Department confirmed that the idea for this design contest was inspired by custom designs created for the district’s high school resource officers.
Hardin also expressed her gratitude towards her art teacher, who encouraged her to enter the contest. The wrap will not only highlight the creativity of a young artist but also serve as a symbol of collaboration between students and local law enforcement.
Stay tuned for updates as the new cruiser wrap makes its debut in the Bellevue community!
