Sgt. Hawkins explains SRO, himself
by Leah Minor
Vernois News
Sergeant Jim Hawkins serves as MV’s School Resource Officer, or SRO.
The purpose of the SRO program, according to Hawkins, is to
break down barriers between high school students and law
enforcement officers.
“I am a resource for students/teachers, and, when I am fortunate
enough to be asked by a teacher, I give presentations in various
classrooms,” stated Sgt. Hawkins.
This being his sixth year on the MV campus, Sgt. Hawkins has become
familiar with the general student population.
“I think the large majority of them [the students] are outstanding
young adults. Unfortunately the community only hears of the other,
smaller fraction of negative students and then judges all students
in the same way,” theorized Sgt. Hawkins.
As with any job, Hawkins has his likes and dislikes about his
position.
“[What I like most is] the opportunity to be around positive adults
[faculty and staff] and students. I get to see people enjoying life
like they should,” stated Sgt. Hawkins
“[I dislike] when people dislike me without really knowing me just
because I am the police,” added Sgt. Hawkins.
One of the more identifiable aspects of a police officer’s wardrobe
is their belt.
“My belt carries a tazer, my firearm, handcuffs, extra ammunition,
pouch for rubber gloves, loop for my flashlight if I’m working at
night, keys, and a radio,” explained Sgt. Hawkins.
Before working at MV, Sgt. Hawkins worked in various other
division of the Police Department, and before that was a
coalminer.
In his spare time, Sgt. Hawkins likes spending time with his
family, tractor therapy, live theater, and driving.
His favorite quotes include “It is our choices that show who we truly are, far more than our abilities,” said by Albus Dumbledore in a Harry Potter book written by J. K. Rowling, and “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed individuals can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has,” said by Margaret Mead.
