Vienna honors school resource officers ahead of National SRO Day

VIENNA, Ill., (KBSI) — The city of Vienna is honoring its School Resource Officer (SRO) team in recognition of National SRO Day on Feb. 15.

The SRO program, a collaborative effort between the Vienna City Police Department and local schools, provides support to Buncombe, Cypress, New Simpson Hill, and Vienna Grade Schools, with its base of operations at Vienna High School.

The team, led by Officer Eileen Rochford under the direction of City Police Chief Jim Miller, comprises certified and sworn officers serving in full- and part-time capacities. Notably, Officer Carl Manley serves as both an SRO and lead instructor for the high school’s public safety and law enforcement program.

Superintendent Joshua Stafford praised the team, saying, “Our SRO team collectively has 200 years of experience, which is a testament to their credibility. Our community is fortunate to have this level of protection for our students.”

The SROs provide armed security, mentorship, and friendship to students, making them invaluable members of the school community.