School resource officers (SRO) do more than just enforce the law and maintain order at school. They educate students, form positive relationships with them, and inspire them to do the right thing.

Officer Dave Clancy was recently recognized by Waynesville Middle School (WMS) and the Waynesville Police Department for his positive and influential impact on WMS students.

Clancy has been the SRO at WMS for the past three years. It is not uncommon to visit the school on any given day and see him walking the halls and stopping to chat with students.

School resource officers check truancies, enforce state laws and school rules and are the first line of defense in the event of a dangerous situation.

“Law enforcement is very common in schools as a way to prevent crime from happening and to address situations that take place here,” Waynesville Middle School Principal Trevor Putnam said. “Officer Clancy’s dedication, skill, and hard work has helped establish links between community and school events to promote a safer school environment.”

Clancy views himself as more than just a police officer, and he strives to have a lasting impact on students’ lives.

“He regularly attends athletic and other special events, both to supervise, and to get to know our student population better,” Jennifer Mehaffey, WMS sixth grade teacher, said. “Although he is authoritative, Officer Clancy has a wonderful rapport with students. The students respect him because they know he always keeps their best interests in mind.”

Mehaffey and her fellow teachers were so appreciative of Clancy’s work with students and the help he provides WMS faculty, that she wrote a letter to the Waynesville Police Department about his contributions to the school.

“The safety of our students and staff is his number one priority,” Mehaffey said. “Our school, our students, and our community’s future are better because of the positive impact he makes.”

Waynesville Police Chief Bill Hollingsed and WMS Principal Trevor Putnam recognized Clancy and presented him with an award on September 27 at the Waynesville Police Department.

Submitted by:  Carrie Sutton, Haywood County Schools Foundation