TVES presents Junior SRO for the Day:
This recognition is awarded to students who stand out as leaders within our school community. Nominees are selected for this honor by their teachers, who look for students showing great character and contributions to the classroom. Once nominated, the fifth-grade candidates write a paragraph explaining what it means to be selected as Junior SRO of the Day. A committee then reviews submissions and selects our Junior SRO.
SRO Larry Gilbert came up with the idea and developed the criteria for students to be nominated, which reflect both our Tiger Character traits and the qualities embodied by law enforcement officers. We are grateful to partner with the Greeneville Police Department to promote character, respect, and service to our community.
The character traits highlighted with our Junior SRO program are as follows:
Integrity: Doing the right thing even when no one is watching, such as being honest about mistakes or following school rules without reminders.
Responsibility: Showing reliability by turning in work on time, being punctual, and taking ownership of their actions.
Empathy and Kindness: Demonstrating care for classmates by being an active listener and helping those who are struggling or feel left out.
Respect: Treating teachers, staff, and peers with consistent politeness and following classroom authority.
Courage: Having the strength to stand up for what is right, even if it is not popular, or to report a safety concern to an adult.
Officer Gilbert also developed a clear agenda for what students will do during their day of service and has worked closely with our staff and GPD to ensure everything is well planned and communicated. Junior SROs will receive a Brag Tag—designed by Mrs. Amanda and Officer Gilbert—as well as a patch designed by Officer Gilbert.
Some examples of duties the Junior SRO may get a chance to help with during their day of service:
Morning: Safety and Visibility
An official check-in on the radio with our central dispatch.
Morning Welcome: Start the day at the school entrance or crosswalk alongside the official SRO to greet students with "high-fives" and smiles, building an approachable presence.
Safety "Patrol" Walk: Conduct a building walkthrough with the SRO to check that doors are secure, and hallways are clear, teaching responsibility and situational awareness.
Morning Announcements: Have the student deliver a "Safety Tip of the Day" over the intercom, such as a reminder about internet safety or playground rules.
Mid-Day: Mentoring and Community Building
Lunchroom "Ambassador": Sit with different grade levels (e.g., 1st graders) during lunch to practice active listening and build rapport, acting as a positive role model.
Conflict Resolution Assistant: With teacher supervision, the student can help peers "Talk It Out" during recess, practicing de-escalation and empathy.
Story Time with an Officer: Visit a younger classroom (Pre-K to 2nd grade) to read a book about community helpers or character traits like integrity.
Afternoon: Education and Leadership
Safety Demonstration: Assist the SRO in a classroom presentation on a topic like bicycle safety or "staying home alone".
Drill Debrief: If a safety drill occurs, the student can participate in a debriefing session with staff to discuss what worked well, fostering a sense of courage and preparation.
Official "Logbook" Entry
End the day by having the student write a brief reflection or "report" on their activities, emphasizing what they learned about serving their community.
Our first Junior SRO of the Day is Fifth Grader Marlee. Marlee wrote a wonderful essay and demonstrates the characteristics represented in our Tiger Character Attributes and GPD character qualities. Marlee did a great job serving last week and hopefully has a lasting memory of her day as Junior SRO!
Our next Junior SRO of the Day is Fifth Grader Kalina. Kalina wrote an amazing essay and received a glowing recommendation to participate as a Junior SRO. She demonstrates the Tiger Character Attributes and GPD character qualities daily.
