Police Officer John Miller had the same first day excitement of being a part of a new school as students today when he joined the Steamboat Springs High School as the new School Resource Officer (SRO).
“It’s great to be a Steamboat Sailor,” smiled Miller. “I’m excited for the school year and share all the same first-day emotions for what’s to come this year. I want students to know I’m here for them anytime.”
Officer Miller, who has been with the Steamboat Springs Police Department since 2017, recently completed the National Association of School Resource Officers’ (NASRO) intensive training. NASRO, the world’s leader in school-based policing, is a not-for-profit organization founded in 1991 with an unrelenting commitment to school safety.
Designed for law enforcement officers, these courses provide the tools officers need to build positive relationships with both students and staff that cover all elements of planning, prevention and response to school safety on a variety of levels.
“SSP believes in the value of the SRO position,” commented Police Commander Annette Dopplick. “For more than two decades, our SRO officers have played a vital role in the well-being of our high school students and served as a positive presence in the school community.”
Steamboat Springs Police established the School Resource Officer (SRO) position in 1997. Traditionally across the county, the cost of staffing the SRO is covered outside the department; however, the SSPD covers this position 100% internally; there is no contribution from the school district. The SRO works in partnership with the high school community to address school-based concerns using multi-faceted and innovative approaches.
Steamboat Springs Police and Steamboat Springs High School provide a safe learning environment that promotes good health and is free from violence, weapons, hazards, vandalism, and substance abuse for the students and staff.
The SRO position was previously held by Officer Brent Hunsted, who was promoted to Police Sergeant earlier this year. While Officer Miller started his new duties earlier this week, he enjoyed welcoming students on their first day of school today.
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Contact
Cory Christensen, Police Chief, 970.879.4344 or email
Annette Dopplick, Commander, 970.879.4344 or email
John Miller, School Resource Officer, 970.879.4344 or email