Rutherford County officials praise school resource officers for safety, mentorship
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Summary
Rutherford County school leaders and school resource officers described SROs as central to student safety and community-building, noting the program has grown from five officers in 1993 to 79 today and serves 52 district campuses.
Rutherford County school and law enforcement officials praised the district's school resource officer program, saying the officers not only respond quickly to threats but also serve as mentors and community partners.
"Our school resource officers are vigilant, highly trained professionals...their quick response has helped deter situations in our schools before they've escalated," the director of schools said, noting the district's SROs work across 52 campuses.
The remarks outlined how SROs participate in classroom visits, coach sports and attend student events to build trust with young people. An agency official said the program began in 1993 under then-Sheriff Truven Jones with five officers and has since expanded to 79 SROs.
The agency official also highlighted officers' community engagement, citing fundraisers such as "Toots for Shop for the Sheriff," a golf tournament serving special-needs students, and a pickleball tournament to raise funds for youth programs.
A deputy who works at one of the district's middle schools — described as the state's largest by enrollment with about 1,800 students — said regular presence in common areas and attendance at students' activities helps students feel comfortable reporting problems.
"I want them to feel safe coming to me," the deputy said, adding that building relationships can change how students perceive law enforcement.
The director of schools closed by thanking SROs "for all they do each day to keep our schools safe."