Clayton Police Recognize Impact School Resource Officers Have on Students & Campus Safety
CLAYTON, NC – The Clayton Police Department is recognizing the dedication and commitment of its School Resource Officers (SROs) in honor of National School Resource Officer Appreciation Day.
According to Lieutenant Jeff Young, SROs do more than just enforce the law. They serve as mentors and role models who students can turn to in times of need. Working closely with school administrators, they promote safety, prevent conflicts, and provide guidance, all while strengthening relationships with students.
“Officers can seem intimidating based on past interactions or things they’ve seen in the news or on TV,” said Officer Miguel Duran, stationed at Johnston Charter Academy. “There can be some apprehension from kids or parents, and that’s why I make sure to leave the impression that I’m here for them. I want them to know I’m their friend and someone they can rely on. If they want to talk or approach me, I remind them that at the end of the day, I’m just a regular person.”
Officer Jalise Farris, stationed at Clayton High School, emphasized the importance of establishing trust and engaging with students.
“I interact with students like they’re my own nieces and nephews, treating them with respect because that’s how I’d want law enforcement to treat my family,” said Farris. “I talk to them in a straightforward and respectful manner, making sure I’m clear and direct. At the same time, I keep it lighthearted and joke with them when I can. But they also know when it’s time to be serious and listen. There’s no playing around. I strive to be relatable and approachable while still setting clear boundaries.”
The relationships SROs build with students extend beyond the school setting. They also engage with residents at local events and public gatherings, which helps bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community, creating a sense of familiarity and mutual respect.
“It’s rewarding when students and their families see me outside of school at the Clayton Christmas Parade, Harvest Festival, Fourth of July fireworks,” said Officer Alexandria Woodall, stationed at West Clayton Elementary School. “When they point me out to their parents or relatives and come up to hug me, it makes connecting with them so much easier when you’re not just seeing them in school but out and about in Town.”
The Clayton Police Department is grateful for the dedication and positive influence that the SROs have on students and the community, Young added. By creating meaningful connections and offering encouragement in a variety of ways, SROs are important figures who shape campus safety and help students thrive.
National SRO Day is celebrated every year on Feb .15. For more information about the role of SROs in Clayton, visit claytonpolice.org.
(Officer Miguel Duran in the main office at Johnston Charter School)
(Officer Jamel Alexander (left) and Officer Jalise Farris (right) walking the halls of Clayton High School)
(Officer Alexandria Woodall speaking with a staff member at West Clayton Elementary School)
(Row 1 (from left to right) Officer Miguel Duran, Officer Jalise Farris; Officer Tara Stewart, and Officer Avigail Cruz; Row 2 (from left to right) Officer Jason Tedder, Officer October Harris, Lt. Jeff Young, and Officer Alexandria Woodall)
