For Dane Chernock, becoming a full-time school resource officer (SRO) at LHS is more than a change of scenery; it is a new adventure and a step into living his lifelong dream of being a police officer.
“It’s kind of tacky, but growing up, my dad was a police officer. He worked nights, and when he was home, I just remember how much I admired what he did. I knew the lifestyle, and I decided it was such a great profession. I like the idea of teaching people things, and that’s where my calling ended up,” said Chernock.
After graduating from Wayne State College in 2016, Chernock had his sights set on becoming a police officer in Sioux Falls and began the rigorous, nine-month hiring process.
“It’s physical testing, academic testing, psych evaluations and polygraph testing. A lot goes into it,” said Chernock.
He then completed 16 weeks in the police academy, followed by 15 weeks of on-the-job field training. After those were completed, he stepped into his position as a patrol officer and did so for six and a half years. Two and a half years ago, he accepted the position that brought him to LHS.
“I’ve been off and on at Lincoln for the past two years as the rover school resource officer. I was the substitute SRO, if you want to call it that. My job was to bounce around town, helping out other SROs who had primary spots, like middle and high schools. I would assist Officer Drummond if he had something going on,” said Chernock.
Chernock was offered a permanent position at LHS starting in February and has been making his mark since. Since he has been an SRO for almost three years, he has four years of eligibility left, as specialty units—including detectives and park officers—have a seven-year limit.
“Once seven years hit, we have to go do something else; [we can go] back to the streets or we can promote. It forces us to change, which is fine with me! I want to give somebody else a chance to try this because this is a very rewarding role,” said Chernock.
Although he has only been in this permanent position for a few months, his ability to connect with students has already shone throughout LHS; his perspective towards enforcing safety in the school prioritizes connection and mutual respect.
“My favorite part is seeing kids, seeing the youth, not at their worst moment. Before I was an SRO, I worked five years on nights. Anytime I ran into a kid at night, it was probably the worst night of their lives or when they’re doing something they shouldn’t be doing. Here, this gives me a chance to see you guys at your normal,” said Chernock.
Being an SRO comes with huge responsibilities, including ensuring the safety of students and staff. However, it also comes with great opportunities to make an incredible impact on countless lives.
“I think it’s truly what you make of it.
You can sit in your office all day and type away on the computer, or you can get out and meet kids and teachers. I’ve seen kids get involved and grow into good human beings that are going to go back to society,” said Chernock.
