Safely SECURE: Cpl Hoyland is on Duty for LCCTC
by Elia McKnight, Electrical Occupation senior (Laurel)
When police presence was initially requested at a local high school and concern was raised throughout the tri-county area, Cpl. Hoyland, Lawrence County CTC’s School Resource Officer, immediately turned to his training. When not at LCCTC, he claims the role of “New Castle City Police Officer” in our community. On this day, Cpl. Hoyland remained at his LCCTC post, ever mindful of the situation and ready to take action to the next level if needed.
On any typical day, the role of our SRO is vital. The SRO is a constant presence so that whenever our students turn around they’re reminded to make good choices, but on the day of the nationwide hoaxes claiming threats of school violence — before anyone knew that the threats were unfounded, Cpl. Hoyland ensured that each nook and cranny of our building was safe and secure. Earlier in the year, he conducted training in proper protocol for situations like this and instituted a system of communication, so the teaching staff was there to turn each cog in the plan, and it worked. Then, he became a highly visible presence should any threat arrive on our doorstep — a pillar of strength through moments of uncertainty.
Students continued to go about their day, cognizant of the “SECURE” status delivered over the public address system and sent to each student's home; “SECURE”, a cautionary level of Standard Response Protocol, ensures that students remain safely inside and attend to business as usual while officials patrol the area. As the LCCTC community traveled to lunch and from class to class, it was obvious to all that our SRO was on the job. Each was thankful for it.
Corporal Hoyland — Had there been a problem, we knew you were ready to act, and for that — we appreciate you.
Whether it’s organizing a Shop with the Cop event, training the staff in safety protocols, giving a pat on the back when another certification has been earned, or calming frayed nerves by demonstrating to our Eagle community that you are there for us no matter what may come, once again, we collectively say, “Thank you!”
