The day to honor those who patrol the school hallways, National School Resource Officer Day has been formally recognized by Mayor William E. Carter as a day to celebrate school-based law enforcement nationally each February 15th. Elizabethton.org reported the mayor’s proclamation during the February City Council meeting, encouraging citizens to extend gratitude towards School Resource Officers (SROs), citing their valuable contribution to community safety.

Started by the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) in 2022, this day applauds the collaboration of educators, students, and law enforcement officers to preserve safe educational environments. According to Elizabethton Police Chief Jason Shaw in a statement obtained by Elizabethton.org, “The role of the school resource officer is very important. All our SRO's are dedicated individuals and do a great job.  I am very appreciative and proud of them." 

The commitment of the City Council is evident in the approval of a grant during their July 2024 meeting, which amounted to $375,000 used for the five SROs in the local school system. This funding from the State of Tennessee, governed by the TN Department of Safety and Homeland Security, ensures that public schools have a full-time certified law enforcement officer present. Council's approval marked by governmental support facilitates the full implementation of the SRO program, with funds covering payroll, benefits, training, and equipment.

NASRO's training equips law enforcement officers to protect, educate, and counsel within school communities. They are put in place with the goal of aiding youth to achieve their potential in a learning environment where safety is held paramount.