School resource officers, often shortened to “SROs,” are essential to keeping daily school routines going; an SRO helps ensure everyone at school is in a safe environment. While they are at the LHSD schools daily, not many people know them or what they do. The school resource officer at Green Elementary is Officer Nungester, Police K-9 Tiger’s handler.
Officer Nungester chose to pursue a career in law enforcement to make a difference in the youth. He added, “I want them to have a positive role model with law enforcement, which I thought I could fulfill.”
A typical day for him begins with getting ready and preparing Tiger for their day. After getting ready, they arrive at Green Elementary at around 8:00 am every morning; the staff gets what Officer Nungester calls “Tiger time,” which is when people get to spend quality time with Tiger if they need comfort or just want to be with him. When the students arrive at the school, they also see Tiger. During the day, the students can get additional “Tiger time” if they need a smile. Officer Nungester then eats lunch with Tiger. At the end of the school day, Nungester and Tiger sit in the police car and monitor student pick-up.
Being an SRO also comes with responsibilities that are outside the job description. For example, he and Tiger play with the kids at recess, and they have a book they want to read to every class throughout the school year.
Many do not know what exactly school resource officers are there for. It is the job of the SRO to keep students safe, and that is what Officer Nungester does. When asked what he wishes all students would know, Officer Nungester said, “I want them to know that school is safe for them.” He cares about the children he works with, and he hopes that they know they are protected and to feel that the school is a safe place for them.
SROs are essential to school routines, ensuring everything runs smoothly, and everyone stays safe daily. Make sure to thank a school resource officer when and if you can!