Police surprise hardworking students at one Pueblo elementary school with teddy bears

PUEBLO, Colo. (KRDO) -- Ten hardworking students at Pueblo's Columbian Elementary School received a special treat from the Pueblo Police Department.

Sgt. Frank Ortega said he came up with the idea to reward those who show up every day eager to learn and help their classmates.

After being selected by their teachers, Ortega spent Wednesday handing out the teddy bears.

"They got real excited when I just showed them what the prize was. And the thing is, when students get, like, little recognition of what they do, it really motivates them and it motivates the other students to continue to try to apply themselves," said Ortega.

Ortega said he chooses schools that have fewer resources.

While not everyone got a bear, the department hopes seeing others recognized for their academic success will motivate their peers to work hard too.

Ortega said he plans on continuing handing out teddy bears.