For City of Fairfax Police Officers Keyshawn Cox and Patrick Talbott, serving as a School Resource Officer is about much more than being present in a school building.
It is about relationships.
Cox begins his first year as the School Resource Officer at Katherine Johnson Middle School this fall, while Talbott returns for his second year at Fairfax High School. Although they come to the role with different backgrounds and experiences, both officers share a similar goal: to become trusted members of their school communities and help students make good choices, find support when they need it and feel safe and welcome at school.
Cox, now in his second year with the City of Fairfax Police Department, grew up in New York with two parents who served as New York City police officers. A self-described “nerd” in middle school who loved science, he is especially excited about working with students during a time when they are beginning to become more independent.
He also hopes to build relationships with parents and caregivers.
“Middle school students are growing up, but they still need the adults in their lives,” Cox said. He encourages families to remain involved and connected, even as their children begin seeking more independence.
At Fairfax High School, Talbott shares that emphasis on connection.
Now in his second year at FHS, Talbott wants students and families to know that his door is always open and that there are many resources available when a student needs support.
“If someone needs me, I will make time for them,” Talbott said.
Talbott also enjoys connecting with students outside the classroom, including attending Fairfax High School football games and seeing students participating in activities with their friends.
This year, he is helping start an Explorers program that will give students interested in law enforcement an opportunity to learn more about the profession. Participants will meet several times a month and take part in experiences designed to introduce them to different aspects of police work.
Both officers say they want students to see them as approachable adults who are there to help.
Whether that means answering a question, helping a student work through a difficult situation or connecting a family with the right resource, Cox and Talbott hope their presence in the schools contributes to a larger sense of community.
Their message to students and families is simple: You can come talk to us.
As the new school year begins, both officers are looking forward to becoming even more connected to the Fairfax community and supporting students from middle school through graduation.