Our SRO Spotlight is on LT. CHRISTOPHER HO
Christopher Ho is a School Resource Officer (SRO) with the Van Buren Police Department, bringing 15 years of law enforcement experience to his role. Since 2013, Officer Ho has been serving the Van Buren School District, where he currently supervises the SRO program and works at the high school.
As part of a team of 12 full-time SROs, Ho is passionate about fostering positive relationships with students and acting as a mentor and role model. His commitment to proactive policing and creating a safe learning environment is evident through his involvement in various educational programs, including the Youth Police Academy. When not on duty, Officer Ho enjoys spending time with his family and his K9 partner, Kato, embodying the spirit of public service both on and off the job.
Law Enforcement Agency:
Van Buren Police Department
How long have you worked in law enforcement?
15 Years
Why did you become an SRO?
2013
What school/school district do you currently serve?
I serve the Van Buren School District as the SRO supervisor and I work at Van Buren High School.
What do you find most challenging about working on a school campus?
Our department employs 12 full-time SROs, and we currently are able to station an SRO at each of our campuses. One of the most challenging aspects of our jobs is cultivating and maintaining relationships with our students as they transfer to other buildings as they get older.
What do you find most rewarding about working on a school campus?
Unlike working patrol or criminal investigations, being an SRO allows us to be proactive and prevent many aspects of criminal behavior. Many of my colleagues and I act as mentors and strive to be role models for students who may not have another in their lives.
What has surprised you the most about working with kids?
It always surprises me how different each student is and how they all need different approaches in dealing with any issues we get involved with.
Are there any programs/techniques that you feel have been helpful and effective in creating a safe learning environment?
Our SRO division works hard to stay involved with our students. We regularly develop and teach classes for our students that include Fatal Vision, Street Law, Drug Awareness and many others. Additionally, we hold a Youth Police Academy during the summer that allows students to learn about Public Safety more in-depth. I feel that these encounters allow our students to learn about who we are and trust that we are capable and here for them.
What advice would you give to a first-year SRO?
My advice for a first-year SRO would be to ask for help. Most of the time we are thought to have all of the answers and be the most important call when someone needs help. I feel like it is impossible for one person to know the answer to every question. Instead, I would advise you to surround yourselves with good people and remember that backup is never a bad thing.
What do you enjoy doing when you aren’t working?
When I am off work I spend time with my wife, 2 children and my K9, Kato.
If you weren’t a police officer, what would you be doing instead?
I can’t imagine doing anything else but I feel like I would stay in public service as a fire fighter or EMT.
Do you know a School Resource Officer who should be featured in our SRO Spotlight? Let us know!
Contact Mitch Regnas at [email protected] or 501-570-8036.