AVON — Avon School Resource Officer Richard Craig is being recognized nationally for his role in the school.
Craig is utilizing TikTok to reach students throughout his district, the state and the country with challenging questions they have. Today, @OfficerCraig has nearly 127,000 followers.
"Everywhere you look, the kids, including my own, they're on these platforms," Craig said.
He takes words of wisdom to TikTok. He also goes live multiple times a week to give students a chance to ask questions.
"I may have students that may not want to approach me in the hallway," Craig said. "Maybe they don't want to be seen talking to the police."
As a dad himself, he said he wants to truly be there for the students.
"Do something nice for somebody," Craig said. "Say something nice, because you never truly understand or know how something you say or do, no matter how small, can change the trajectory of someone else's life."
Changing lives is something his students said he's good at.
"He wants to keep all the kids out of trouble," Avon senior Marcus Toogood said. "He's doing the best he can."
After mass shootings across the country, school resource officers had to take a different approach.
"This is a role you truly have to care (about)," Craig said. "You have to care enough about these kids becoming successful adults (that) you're willing to lay your own safety and life on the line."
Craig was recognized for the work he is doing inside the school. He was named the Region-5 School Resource Officer of the Year, by the National Association of School Resource Officers.
-
Medicare premiums will rise yet again in 2025. Here's what you need to know
Americans on Medicare can expect their premiums to go up by just over $10 per month starting in 2025. Here's what you need to know.INDOT seeking feedback on the next phase of ProPEL US 30 & 31 studies
The Indiana Department of Transportation is asking for feedback from communities along US 30 and 31.Plans released for science and technology campus in Westfield
The Grand Universe District will contain a state-of-the-art science and space center for learning and exploration, as well as a STEM pavilion with related events and amenities.IPS students receive free shoes, hats from Colts’ Kenny Moore II
Kenny Moore II handed out new athletic shoes and hats to over 400 kids at IPS Charles Warren Fairbanks Elementary School on the northeast side of Indianapolis.