Five Jackson Public School (JPS) Police Officers have successfully completed their School Resource Officer (SRO) Certification, enhancing their ability to serve and protect scholars.

This recognition comes after the officers completed an intensive 40-hour training course designed to prepare law enforcement and school safety professionals for the unique challenges of working in a school setting. It’s more than just enforcing the rules; it’s about building strong, positive relationships with scholars and creating a safe and supportive environment for learning.

The officers are: 

• SRO Cornelius Lindsey, Jim Hill High School
• SRO Sameerah Gray, Lanier Jr./Sr. High School
• SRO Allen Whigham, Callaway High School
• SRO Darian Lipsey, Forest Hill High School
• SRO Kason Travis, Murrah High School

These officers were photographed alongside Jackson Public Schools Police Department Interim Chief Corliss Harris, Chief Operating Officer Earl Burke, and Commander Javarius Russell, leaders who are proud of the team's commitment to professional growth and scholar safety.

The SRO training, guided by the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO), follows the Triad Model of school-based policing. This model emphasizes three key roles for SROs: law enforcer, informal counselor, and educator. Officers are trained not only to enforce the law but also to build trust with scholars, support those with disabilities or behavioral challenges, and respond appropriately to school-based emergencies.

“This kind of training is essential for preparing our officers to understand the unique needs of scholars,” said Chief Operations Officer Earl Burke. “It helps them support our mission to create safe learning environments while also serving as positive male role models.”

Interim Police Chief Corliss Harris added, “We are incredibly proud of our officers for taking this step. The skills and knowledge gained from this training will directly impact our schools in a positive way.”

The coursework also dives deep into topics like digital safety, human trafficking, mental health, substance abuse, and practical skills such as de-escalation, behavioral threat assessment, emergency operations planning, and even armed assailant response. It's a comprehensive approach to school safety that goes well beyond the badge.

According to NASRO, the program also focuses on how working with children in schools is fundamentally different from policing adults in the wider community. “Instruction on adolescent brain development, establishing and maintaining successful relationships with diverse students, trauma-informed practices, and supporting students with disabilities will equip participants to develop and maintain positive relationships with all students, staff, and parents,” the association stated.

The JPS Police Department is a full-service law enforcement agency that employs sworn officers, safety officers, analysts, and technicians. Together, they patrol 91 buildings and protect approximately $8 million in school district assets.