A safe learning environment is essential for students of all ages. Without it they are unable to focus on learning the skills needed for a successful education and future.

The Custer County School District has a well developed crisis prevention and response plan that is continually updated with new prevention and response strategies and employees are continually trained on this plan. Additionally, cooperative efforts to strengthen the plan occur on a regular basis with the Custer County Office of Emergency Management, the Custer County Sherriff's Office, and other applicable county agencies. 

The Custer County Sheriff’s Office and the Custer County School District have been working together for a number of years to build a positive working environment in the school.  The program started off small with Deputies working in the school on their days off, and the program has developed to now having a deputy assigned as a full time School Resource Officer (SRO) in the school every day.

Some parents or citizens may be concerned about having a deputy in the school, believing this may lead to more policing actions, or students will be intimidated by my presence in the school.  The primary role of the SRO in the school is for the safety and security of all students and staff.  There may be an occasion where the SRO must act in the capacity as a Deputy in the Sheriff’s Office, however there are clear policies in place for the school staff to handle almost all behavioral issues as they arise, and law enforcement will only be involved if the staff cannot resolve the situation. 

Objectives for the SRO for the Custer County School are as follows:

• Build a positive relationship with the students and staff.

• Encourage students in all areas at school and in their personal lives.

• Be a mentor to students and staff.

• Be an informal counselor to students.

• Protecting the students, staff, and the school by constantly evaluating security measures and procedures. 

• Taking proactive enforcement measures if a situation deems necessary for the welfare of all involved.