Russellville Middle School Gets Resource Officer

The new school resource officer told us he'll be pulling from his own life to help students.

Using what he's learned from his 16 and 11-year-olds to guide them in the right direction.

The halls of Russellville Middle School are empty now but they'll be full of kids come Monday.

One person on campus who's making the rounds a few days early is the school's new resource officer.

"Second day on the job first day with the kids will be Monday," said Officer Chris Isbell.

Like most new people on campus, there's a few butterflies ahead of the first day of classes.

"A little nervous, but I am looking forward to it," said Officer Isbell.

High schools in Russellville, already have resource officers, but Officer Isbell has been added to the middle school this year to try and reach students before they get into trouble.

"Guide and direct them and benefit them as they grow up and make decisions," said Officer Isbell. "I say the earlier the better... Kids at this age are more like a sponge."

Officer Isbell will also be coaching the middle schoolers against drug use and bullying, as well as reach out to students in Russellville Elementary Schools.

Again with the sole point of reaching students early.

"Not because the school is a troubled school," said Officer Isbell, "We're not putting up metal detectors, and I'm not handing out tardy slips to send kids to detention."

As Officer Isbell patrols the halls he hopes the kids see him as a friend more than an authority figure.

This is the first time Russellville's Middle School has had a resource officer in a while, but actually there was one originally about 15 years ago.