Milford Exempted Village School District (MEVSD) has officially completed the expansion of its School Resource Officer (SRO) program, in partnership with the Miami Township Police Department and the City of Milford Police Department. This milestone places dedicated SROs in every elementary and secondary school building, ensuring that students and staff are supported by officers who prioritize both safety and community-building within the schools.
This expansion furthers Milford Schools' commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of students and staff.
"The safety and well-being of our students and staff is always our top priority. By expanding the SRO program, we are not only enhancing security but also providing our students with positive role models who can guide and mentor them every day," said MEVSD Superintendent John Spieser.
The role of SROs in Milford Schools extends far beyond ensuring physical safety. These officers are integral members of the school community, engaging with students in meaningful ways. Acting as mentors, mediators and positive role models, they contribute to the overall well-being of students, helping to guide their development while fostering mutual respect. Their presence in the schools offers students daily opportunities to interact with law enforcement in a non-threatening, approachable environment, breaking down barriers and building trust.
Officer Geremy Grooms highlighted how his role allows students to interact with law enforcement in a non-threatening, neutral environment.
"It's nice to have a space where kids can make their own judgment and see that we are the good guys," said Grooms.
All three officers have already begun making an impact in their schools, quickly becoming trusted figures. Officer Ball shared how students at Boyd E. Smith have embraced him, whether it's playing football on the playground or helping out in the lunchroom. At Pattison Elementary, Officer Stephen Bogan echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of being a trusted presence for the students.
“I’ve always enjoyed being around kids, and while safety and security are my primary duties, being a mentor and friend is just as important,” said Bogan. “I love engaging with them—whether it's tossing a football, playing Foursquare or pushing kids on tire swings. It’s about building trust and making them comfortable around police officers.”
These relationships are vital to the overall culture of safety and trust that Milford Schools seeks to cultivate. As the SROs continue to integrate themselves into the daily rhythm of the schools, they are helping to create an environment where students feel protected, valued and supported, both in and outside of the classroom.
"The overwhelming majority of the kids are very open and welcoming, especially now that they know I'm going to be here," said Officer Ball. "I never dreamed that they would make such an impression on me, and I would enjoy it so much.”
