Sayre, OK – Beckham County Sheriff Derek Manning took time this week to recognize the county’s School Resource Officers in honor of National School Resource Officer Day, praising their impact on student safety and school culture across the area.
Beckham County currently serves three schools with two SROs. Sergeant Wendy Holland and Deputy Joseph Coats split responsibilities between campuses and stay busy throughout the school year.
According to Manning, Deputy Coats covers the two western schools, including Sweetwater and Erick, while Sergeant Holland is assigned to Merritt and also supervises other campuses in that area.
“They do an outstanding job,” Manning said. “We appreciate them so much, and I’m glad to have a chance to recognize them.”
Manning explained that the role of a School Resource Officer extends far beyond patrolling hallways. While safety remains their primary responsibility, both officers are actively involved in student education and relationship building.
“They do everything from basic education of the kids on safety matters to little classes, especially with younger and middle school students,” Manning said. “There are also a lot of unseen things they handle.”
In addition to providing security, SROs assist school staff with situations that go beyond typical school discipline. Their presence alone, Manning noted, often helps deter problems and maintain order.
“They’re not just walking up and down the halls making sure nobody gets in who’s not supposed to,” he said. “They’re interacting with the kids, helping the school staff with issues, and sharing a lot of expertise.”
Manning acknowledged that while it is unfortunate schools require law enforcement presence, the benefits are clear.
“It’s one of those on the one hand, on the other,” he said. “It’s unfortunate their presence is needed, but administrators and teachers really appreciate having them there.”
He also emphasized the importance of positive early interactions between students and law enforcement.
“The relationship we get to build with kids early on is important,” Manning said. “They get to see that a law enforcement officer is an actual person and that they’re there to help.”
As schools continue to prioritize student safety, Manning said Beckham County is proud of the work its School Resource Officers do each day inside local classrooms and hallways.
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