The North Allegheny Communications Department will feature each of the NAPD's officers who patrol the district's schools during the 2024–25 school year. This Q&A session is with Officer Patrick Ciriello, who patrols the campus of Bradford Woods Elementary. Enjoy!

Q:  What inspired you to become a Police Officer?

A:  I've always wanted to become a Police Officer ever since I was a little child. I was always enamored by the Police cars and their uniforms. I also wanted to help, protect, and serve the citizens in the area where I grew up. 

Q:  What's your favorite thing about being an Officer at NA/BWE?

A:  My favorite things at BWE are spending time with the kids and getting to know them. Making the staff and kids feel safe is very important to me and is very rewarding.

Q:  What was your favorite class/subject when you were in school?

A:  My favorite subjects in school were Social Studies and Science. I loved reading or learning about anything having to do with the planets, stars, and space travel.

Q:  What school did you attend? Who was your favorite teacher?

A:  I attended Immaculate Conception grade school (K–8) in Pittsburgh. My favorite teacher was Mrs. Fisher, my first-grade teacher. Mrs. Fisher lived up the block from my house. My friends and I often saw her walking on Saturdays and Sundays, and she would stop to talk with us.

I attended Central Catholic High School in Pittsburgh (9–12). My favorite teachers were Mr. Vincent Ciaramella, who taught German, and Brother Joe Ansel, a Religion Teacher. He used to hold Religion class at Central's upper level in the auditorium. He would have us relax by playing music by Pink Floyd, The Doors, Grateful Dead, Neil Young, and Jimi Hendrix.

Q:  What was your favorite food to eat at school lunch? 

A:  Pizza and hamburgers/fries with chocolate milk.

Q:  Did you play sports or participate in extracurricular activities while in school?

A:  While in school, I played basketball and deck hockey. In the summer, I played baseball and continued playing with a traveling deck hockey team.

Q:  What do you like to do for fun when not at work?

A: I love spending time with my 15-year-old son. We both like to fish together, and I'm currently teaching him the gamesmanship of hunting and the skills he will need as an adult. 

Q:  Do you have any pets? 

A:  Currently, I do not have any pets. My pet cat Jasmine of 20 years passed away last year from natural causes. I really miss her because she was an awesome cat. 

Q:  What is the most important thing you want kids to know about safety?

A:  Pay attention to your surroundings and always listen to your teacher's instructions. 

Q:  What is your favorite way to connect with students at BWE?

A:  This is easy. Just talk to them with dignity and respect.