October is Schools Safety Month, and as part of that, we highlight the men and women who protect our most vulnerable right here in Logan County, our students.
Riverside Local Schools shines a spotlight on Deputy Jean Stanfield, their dedicated School Resource Officer.
Known for her unwavering commitment to student safety, Deputy Jean arrives early each day and dedicates countless hours to supporting the school community.
In addition to her primary role of ensuring safety, Deputy Jean assists with technology during the summer, cleaning and resetting all 650 Chromebooks for the upcoming school year.
Her sense of humor and warm smile make her a beloved figure among students, as she often greets them with high-fives as they leave the building.
“I strive to create a safe environment for our students,” Deputy Jean shared. “Connecting with them and being a supportive presence in their lives is incredibly rewarding.”
Now in her ninth year at Riverside, Dep. Jean appreciates the strong community atmosphere, describing it as a family where everyone looks out for one another.
Outside of her school duties, she enjoys reading, visiting the Smoky Mountains, and beekeeping, and she lives with her partner Jacki, along with their four dogs, a goat, a mini pig, barn cats, and honey bees.
In recognition of Ohio School Safety Month, Benjamin Logan Local Schools also honors their School Resource Officers: Rick Herring, Neill Rhodes, and Matt Robinson.
These officers play a vital role in maintaining a safe and supportive environment for students and staff.
Every day, Officers Herring, Rhodes, and Robinson serve as protectors and mentors, fostering a culture of safety and trust within the schools.
Their influence extends beyond security; they actively contribute to building meaningful relationships with students.
Superintendent John Scheu emphasized the multifaceted role of the SROs, stating, “Their work goes far beyond safety and security. They help build positive relationships and mentor students while providing valuable guidance on safety and prevention.”
The impact of these officers is deeply felt within the Benjamin Logan community.
Whether responding to incidents or educating students on safety topics, they exemplify the spirit of partnership in the educational journeys of students.
As the district honors School Safety Month this October, it expresses gratitude for the unwavering commitment of Officers Herring, Rhodes, and Robinson.
Their presence enhances security and strengthens the bonds of trust between law enforcement, students, and staff.
Additionally, Indian Lake School Resource Officer Logan Miller deserves recognition for his full-time commitment to the Indian Lake campus.
Officer Miller has fostered trusting relationships with students across all grades, teaches DARE classes, and coaches the Esports team at Indian Lake High School.
His K-9 partner, Hondo, further enriches the school experience by interacting with students.
The community also acknowledges Washington Township Police Chief Michael Thompson, who is present on campus daily, especially during drop-off and pick-up times, and assists with DARE classes.
Russells Point Police Chief Joe Freyhof has also made significant contributions, completing his third year of Safety Town with Indian Lake kindergarten students.
Together, these officers and community leaders play a crucial role in ensuring that schools remain safe and welcoming for everyone.
The district encourages continued support and strengthening of these essential relationships to uphold the safety and well-being of all students.
The Bellefontaine City Schools (BCS) benefit from the dedicated work of three School Resource Officers (SROs) who play a crucial role in maintaining safety and fostering positive relationships within the school community.
Doug Walters serves as the SRO at Bellefontaine High School, where he focuses on ensuring a secure environment for students and staff.
His presence not only helps prevent incidents but also encourages students to approach him with any concerns.
John Godwin is the SRO at Bellefontaine Middle School, where he emphasizes building trust with students.
His approachable demeanor allows him to connect with young teens, helping them feel safe and supported.
Isaac Chiles covers both Bellefontaine Intermediate School and Bellefontaine Elementary School.
His work involves engaging with younger students, teaching them about safety and the importance of community.
Together, these officers are integral to the safety and well-being of BCS, ensuring that students and staff have a secure environment to learn and grow.
Their commitment to building relationships fosters a sense of community, making schools not just safe, but welcoming places for everyone.
The Ohio Hi-Point Career Center is proud to have Deputy Adam Niederkohr on campus daily as the school resource officer.
Deputy Niederkohr plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of students and staff, providing a reassuring presence throughout the school.
As an asset to the district, Deputy Niederkohr not only focuses on maintaining a safe environment but also fosters positive relationships with students.
His presence helps to create a supportive atmosphere where students feel comfortable seeking guidance and assistance.
The dedication of these individuals exemplifies the commitment to a nurturing and secure educational environment.
