A Listening Ear Guides Clayton School Resource Officer Each Day
When parents send their children to school each morning, they want to know they will be safe, supported, and surrounded by adults who care. At Clayton Middle School, School Resource Officer Tomeka Moore helps provide that comfort every day. As an officer with the Clayton Police Department, Moore is a steady and trusted presence for students, staff, and families.
Moore has worked in law enforcement for 18 years – serving in patrol, code enforcement, and evidence – and came to Clayton after serving with the Selma Police Department. She chose to continue working in schools because she believes students deserve support during a formative time in their lives. “I love being a voice for children,” said Moore. ““They respect me for that.”
She spends much of her day in the hallways, greeting students and building trust through everyday conversations. Moore shares that some students may be hesitant at first, especially if they have had negative experiences with law enforcement. “It is hard building relationships with students,” she said, “because some of them may have already had encounters with law enforcement that may not have been positive.”
Rather than staying distant, Moore focuses on being approachable and present. She takes time to connect with students in ways they do not always expect from an officer, whether that means joining them in the gym, greeting them between classes, or simply being someone they can talk to. Those small moments are often what stays with her most. “I do get a lot of hugs and a lot of high fives,” said Moore.
Teachers and school administrators also work closely with Moore throughout the day. By staying connected with staff, she helps relay information that may affect the school community, especially when students open up to her first. “Sometimes you will get kids to tell you things of importance that they may not share with others,” she said.
Moore has also built strong relationships with parents, whether she is meeting families during school events or seeing them around Town. She says students often recognize her in the community and proudly introduce her. “They let their parents know, ‘This is Officer Moore. She works at my school’,” she said.
Along with her daily work, Moore trains year-round to help the school remain prepared for emergencies. That preparation is one more way she helps create peace of mind for students, staff, and families.
Moore believes school resource officers can help students see law enforcement in a more positive light by showing consistency, care, and support. “I want to be able to give the kids a different perspective on law enforcement,” she said.
The Town of Clayton is proud to recognize Officer Tomeka Moore and all school resource officers who serve our schools with dedication and compassion. School Resource Officer Day, observed this year on Saturday, February 15, is a time to honor the officers who build relationships, provide safety, and help make schools a positive place to learn.
