By Emma Stone
Each school in Lincoln Parish has at least one School Resource Officer, and Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Officer Mitch Jenkins is Ruston Elementary School’s SRO — and RES faculty, staff and students were ready to celebrate in style.
Last Friday, the school’s carline and daycare drivers honored Jenkins by decorating their windows or making signs showing appreciation, and the faculty and staff were able to shower him with gifts to celebrate.
“We wanted him to know how special we think he is,” said Mandy Brown, RES principal.
RES surprised Jenkins with a gift card to Lowes, a basket of his favorite treats from faculty and signed cards from everyone.
“He is a dedicated worker and rarely misses a day,” said Brown. “He is loved by all of our parents, students and faculty.
“I am reassured knowing that Officer Jenkins is on campus and is putting the safety and welfare of our faculty and students at his top priority.”
Officer Jenkins stopped by each car that had a sign and took a picture with them.
“I guess it’s really not me, it’s the guys in which I work with plus this school here, I think is the best,” said Jenkins. “All the kids here, the parents that come through the carline and the
kids that ride the bus, they are just awesome.”
Jenkins spends time talking to kids at recess, helping with carline and fostering relationships with everyone at RES.
“I’m a shy kind of guy,” Jenkins said. “I don’t show much emotion, but they kind of got to me thing morning.”
