New Wave of School Cops Pledge to Safeguard Local Students

In the Maricopa Unified School District, Student Resource Officers (SROs) play pivotal roles beyond traditional law enforcement duties. They act as mentors, support systems, and safety advocates for students across various schools.

“This school year presents an opportunity for growth and connection,” said Maricopa Police Department Sgt. Pamela O’Neal, the supervisor of the SRO Unit. The officers are committed to fostering environments where students feel empowered to pursue their aspirations and know they have support every step of the way.

This year’s SROs include Officer Adam Abel, who brings 16 years of police experience to Maricopa Wells Middle School. His mornings consist of overseeing drop-offs and engaging with students as they arrive. Abel emphasizes personalized interactions, stating, “I meet with students one-on-one as needed and occasionally teach classes on law enforcement topics.” He aims to help students navigate their future career paths and life choices.

Abel encourages persistence, saying, “School can be tough. It’s important to remember that challenging times will pass, and support is always available.”

Officer Zak Bittner, who has five years of law enforcement experience, serves as the SRO at Desert Sunrise High School. He finds significant fulfillment in his role. “As the school day begins, I greet staff and students and monitor campus activities,” he explained. Bittner balances safety monitoring with educational outreach and plans to train staff on safety protocols.

He advises students to contemplate their future careers, noting how quickly high school years can pass by.

Officer Brian Brown, with 19 years of police and detective experience, takes on the role at Desert Wind Middle School after three years as an SRO. “Having always viewed protection as essential, becoming a police officer felt like a natural progression,” Brown shared. He emphasizes the unpredictability of each day, stressing the importance of proactive communication with students to avert negative situations.

Brown’s encouragement for students is straightforward: “Life may be hard, but it will improve.”

Officer Jamie McCauley, with six years in law enforcement, represents Maricopa High School this year. Her daily routine begins with traffic monitoring for student drop-off and extends to walking the campus, assisting students in reaching their classes. McCauley prioritizes establishing connections with students, stating, “I aim to encourage them to excel while emphasizing safety.”

She expresses enthusiasm for witnessing students’ achievements, especially during sporting events and graduations, saying, “I want every student to know I am rooting for their success.”

Lastly, Officer Matt Rexinger is the SRO at Sequoia Pathway, bringing 22 years of total law enforcement experience. He shares a unique path to policing, originally pursuing architecture before following a friend’s footsteps into law enforcement. “Each day begins with greeting students upon arrival and continues with classroom interactions and safety checks,” Rexinger explained.

He anticipates watching students grow, advising them to stay focused and prioritize their responsibilities while enjoying their high school experience.