Our SRO Spotlight is on LT. FRANKLIN A. EDWARDS
Lieutenant Edwards was the 2024 recipient of the Kool-Aid “SRO of the Year” Award. As a new school year begins, he’s using the SRO Spotlight to offer advice for officers on building positive relationships within the school community.
Law Enforcement Agency: Independence County Sheriff’s Office / Cedar Ridge School District
How long have you worked in law enforcement? 27 years
Why did you become an SRO?
I had already had dealings with the school, so the SRO position was an easier choice. I have always enjoyed going into the schools and being able to speak to the younger kids about what I do in the community. I enjoy seeing them in the hallways and am always willing to listen to their stories and hear how their day is going.
What school/school district do you currently serve?
I serve the Cedar Ridge School District that is located on the southeast side of Independence County.
What do you find most challenging about working on a school campus?
As an SRO, the school district feels especially busy, with a constant flow of responsibilities that go beyond traditional law enforcement. From monitoring school safety and responding to incidents, to building relationships with students and staff, every day is packed with tasks that require attention and care. The role involves not just maintaining order but also participating in meetings, planning safety drills, attending school events, and being a visible presence in the hallways. The pace is fast, and the demands are high, but it’s all part of creating a secure and positive environment for everyone in the district.
What do you find most rewarding about working on a school campus?
I find that the relationships and friendships over the years are great. I have been with kids from grade school to their graduation, and I get to see them begin their journey through life. I enjoy seeing kids graduate, go to college and come back and teach at our school. It’s remarkable and it comes full circle.
What has surprised you the most about working with kids?
One of the things that surprises me most about working with kids is their incredible resilience and adaptability. They can go through tough situations and still find ways to bounce back and stay positive. It’s also surprising how much they look up to authority figures for guidance, even when they don’t always show it. Sometimes, it’s the smallest acts of kindness or just being there to listen that make the biggest difference in their lives.
Are there any programs/techniques that you feel have been helpful and effective in creating a safe learning environment?
There are several programs and techniques that have been particularly effective in creating a safe learning environment. For example, the implementation of restorative justice practices has been invaluable. Instead of just punishing students for misconduct, we focus on resolving conflicts and helping students understand the impact of their actions. This approach helps build a more supportive and respectful school community.
Additionally, programs like D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) and peer mentoring have been successful in encouraging positive behavior and decision-making among students. Regular safety drills and open communication channels between students, staff, and law enforcement also contribute to a more secure atmosphere. Overall, fostering relationships and trust between students and school staff is key to maintaining a safe environment.
What advice would you give to a first-year SRO?
My advice to a first-year SRO would be to focus on building relationships and trust with the students and staff from day one. Take the time to listen and get to know the school community—it’s essential to being effective in your role. Remember that you’re not just there for enforcement but also for mentorship and guidance. Saying “That’s not my Job” is not an option. Be visible and approachable. Walk the halls, attend school events, and show the students that you’re there to support them, not just to enforce rules. It’s important to find a balance between being authoritative and being compassionate.
Also, don’t hesitate to collaborate with school counselors, teachers, and administrators. They can provide valuable insights and help you address issues more effectively.
Lastly, stay patient and flexible—every day can bring new challenges, and your ability to adapt and respond thoughtfully will be crucial to your success.
What do you enjoy doing when you aren’t working?
I love spending my free time working in the yard and landscaping. It’s a great way to clear my mind and find some peace after the challenges of the day. There’s something incredibly rewarding about seeing the tangible results of your efforts, whether it’s planting a new flower bed or maintaining a well-kept lawn.
If you weren’t a police officer, what would you be doing instead?
If I wasn’t in law enforcement, I’d still be dedicated to serving the community in some way. My passion for helping others and making a difference is at the core of who I am, whether that’s through policing or another avenue of public service such as education or emergency medical services.
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.