School Resource Officer Gives Students Steady Support
Jamie Walk needed more opportunity. Opportunity to grow. Opportunity to advance.
After 11 years at a small police department near Kansas City, Walk understood opportunity wasn’t coming. He had gone as far as he could go.
That’s why he transferred to KCPD and its many offerings.
Sooner than later, after just two years, a school resource officer asked Walk if he was interested in being her partner at Northeast High School.
“I had been on the streets 14 years, and it was something different,” Walk said. “I didn’t know I wanted to do it, but I thought it was time for a change, so let’s give it a try.”
Walk’s talkative, approachable, and always ready to joke. He thinks that’s why he was asked to be an SRO. The students, as it turned out, really liked Walk. At Northeast since 2007, his role, Walk said, is heavily focused on being a mentor and counselor to students.
“We’re with kids 40 hours a week, so it’s important they see a good role model,” Walk explained. “We try to set a good example and make sure students are comfortable to talk to us. Between two officers (Walk’s partner), we take care of a lot of people.”
School begins on Monday, Aug. 21. For Walk, entering his 17th year at the high school, it’s a chance to meet new students. He knows he has an opportunity to influence teens and make a difference in their lives.
“You genuinely help people here,” Walk said. “It makes you feel good, and if it makes you feel good, I’m in the right place.”