Fremont High School (FHS) continues to prioritize safety, particularly amid growing concerns over violence and vandalism. To reinforce security, the school has welcomed a new School Resource Officer (SRO) this year to help maintain a safe environment for students and staff.
An SRO is a law enforcement officer assigned to monitor school grounds, uphold order, and ensure the safety of students and staff.
FHS worked diligently to fill the SRO vacancy. However, due to staffing shortages at the Fremont Police Department, the position remained unfilled until Officer Hunter McKenzie accepted the role.
Before joining the Fremont Police Department, McKenzie gained experience in logistics at Maverick Distribution LLC. In March 2019, he transitioned into law enforcement, where he has now served for over four years.
Students and staff have expressed their appreciation for Officer McKenzie’s presence.
“I have not met him personally, but I have heard great things about him,” science teacher Bailie Letzring-Hansen said. “I think it is great for us to have an SRO, and I appreciate how well he watches and monitors the hallways during the day and after school.”
Music teacher Mark Harman also recognizes the positive impact of having an SRO on campus.
“It’s very nice to have someone in the building,” Harman said. “It is also reassuring to know that we have an SRO after going so long without one. It is difficult to balance teaching and monitoring the halls at the same time, so I love that we have an SRO to help us out.”
While teachers appreciate the added support in maintaining a secure environment, students also acknowledge the importance of having an SRO at school.
“I think it is a very good thing because having an SRO acts as a deterrent for school shootings and drug use,” junior Landon McGee said. “Now, we have a resource officer in the building.”
McKenzie’s transition into his role as an SRO stems from his dedication to serving the community and contributing to public safety.
“I’ve always had a passion for law enforcement,” McKenzie said. “I always planned to be an SRO at some point in my career, so I figured, why not now?”
Reflecting on the start of the school year, he shared his positive experience so far.
“FHS has been great. Students, staff, and the administration have been super helpful,” McKenzie said. “Making a difference in people’s lives, one person at a time.”
