School Resource Officers build relationships and trust

As kids head back to school and the hustle and bustle of another school year begins, the Sheridan Police Department was there to greet teachers and give high-fives to the returning students. 

According to SPD Captain Tom Ringley, the city’s police force uses a tactic of community policing. This method of policing develops strong partnerships with organizations and residents the department serves to develop solutions to problems and instill trust in the police department. 

During the first day of school for Sheridan County School Districts 2 and 3, officers were present to not only greet students and staff but to also remind the public that the city’s officers are on duty to keep kids safe. 

Ringley told listeners of Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse program that school safety is a priority for the department and they address the safety of schools using a two tier system. 

According to SPD Lieutenant James Hill, School Resources Officers (SRO) work within the schools guided by three principles. 

Children are excited to be back in school and may not be as attentive as they cross streets, ride their bikes and enter and exit school buses. The Sheridan Police Department is asking residents to remain vigilant while driving near school zones both before and after school hours to help keep students safe. 

For more back to school safety tips, click here.