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New resource officer eager to take on new challenge

Since taking on the position of School Resource Officer (SRO), Const. Glen Wallace has enjoyed the interaction with students
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RCMP Const. Glen Wallace has just taken on the role of School Resource Officer for Wolf Creek Public Schools. Here he practices his guitar skills at his office at the school.

Since taking on the position of School Resource Officer (SRO), Const. Glen Wallace has enjoyed the interaction with students at Wolf Creek Public Schools (WCPS).

Wallace took on the position at the beginning of September and he says there are several aspects of the job he enjoys. Whether he is watching the Broncs sports teams compete or playing soccer with younger students at Ponoka Elementary School, the interaction brings rewards.

He uses informal conversation to connect with students. “It can be as little as saying good morning to people,” said Wallace.

Taking the time to ask students about their day is a simple act but he feels it goes a long way in developing a strong sense of trust. This helps the SRO when he has to enforce laws.

“I’m still going to enforce the laws…you can’t be the friend and not bring some responsibility,” he explained.

Wallace suggests a good friend is someone who will help kids see that they are making a bad decision. “I’ve got the reputation of stopping a lot of vehicles already.”

“I want people driving safely when I leave,” he added.

Wallace works closely with WCPS as a liaison and communicates with administrators on a regular basis. Wallace feels his presence helps create a safe environment.

“It’s not just good for the school but it’s good for the community,” Wallace explained. “If we can steer children in the right direction now, it will help them when they’re not in school.”

Wallace feels it is difficult to see the benefits of his position in the short term. “It’s easy to keep stats on crimes but we can’t keep stats on how many crimes we prevent,” he explained.

Wallace received some training on the SRO position and he feels this position is a valuable investment that will pay dividends in the future.

One thing Wallace enjoys is listening to students learn how to play guitar in the hallways. He plays the guitar and is an avid collector of the instrument and has one with him in his office. He uses that to connect with students and listens to what they have to say. “It’s trying to find a common interest.”

In keeping the lines of communication open, Wallace says he has an open-door policy if students want to speak with him.

“You’re almost in a parental role,” he said.