New School Resources Officer Hired for Gage and Jefferson County

By Gordon Hopkins The Gage County Sheriff's Office has hired a new School Resources Officer (SRO) to cover Diller-Odell, Freeman, and Southern School Districts. Diller-Odell Elementary is in Jefferson County. The other schools are in Gage County. According to the United States Department of Justice, SROs are, “Sworn law enforcement officers responsible for safety and crime prevention in schools.” Gage County Sheriff Millard “Gus” Gustafson gave an update to County Supervisors at a meeting on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, “So we did get someone selected for the School Resource deputy. And that's going to be Deputy Hager, Mike Hager. Been with me about four years.” “So his training will be scheduled, I think some time here coming up in first week or two of December,” said Sheriff Gustafson. “I think schools are getting a little excited about getting this off the ground and going so I hope it works out well for us.” The first year for the new SRO is being funded by Gage County. Neither Diller-Odell or Southern has had an SRO previously. Southern School District Superintendent Dr. Chris Prososki told FJN, “I would like to personally thank the Gage County Board of Supervisors for making the safety and security of all the students and staff members a number one priority for all Gage County schools. This new position will serve as another line of defense to combat any potential threats of violence that may occur within the school walls of the 3 districts.” Diller-Odell Superintendent Mike Meyerle told FJN the SRO will be working in Jefferson County as well, as the elementary is in Diller.Meyerle said, “We appreciate Gage County funding this program for its first year. I think it is a great way for a member of law enforcement to build positive relationships with kids at the three schools.”

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