With periodic changes in school policies and curriculum, each school year is bound to feel a little bit different than the last. Not only does the beginning of the year bring about new classes, new opportunities and new experiences, but fresh new faces around campus. Following the departure of the previous SRO Deputy Norwood, Officer Hunter Bacorn joins the West community and takes on the role of school resource officer.
Although new to the SRO position, Bacorn is no stranger to West.
“I went to West Forsyth and I graduated here so I enjoy it. I like the layout of the campus, I can be outside a lot more and I enjoy the dense population because I can meet a lot of new people…It hasn’t changed much in my opinion, the buildings are the same and there’s still a great group of kids,” Bacorn said.
Prior to reporting for duty on a high school campus, Bacorn worked up front as a street patrol officer.
“In 2019 I went to the Winston-Salem Police Department, and that’s where I completed 29 weeks of training to become a sworn law enforcement officer. I patrolled for two years in Winston-Salem before I moved over to the sheriff’s office where I’ve been for the past two years,” Bacorn said.
Considering the differences between Bacorn’s previous duty as street patrol officer and the SRO role, there were some adjustments he noted during this transition.
“As far as a street cop is concerned, you’re in your car a lot more, you handle investigation and move on to the next. But here, you’re going to see that person every day, so you can’t just drive away and leave it. You’re gonna be with this person throughout the year so it definitely has a deeper meaning,” Bacorn said.
For the first two weeks of Bacorn’s duty, he shadowed previous SRO Deputy Norwood and received some words of advice.
“I learned about the busy times of the day, like the changes of lunches. There are denser crowds because of class change so it’s good to make sure you’re out and about and being seen, and building relationships with the students,” Bacorn said.
In order to create special bonds around school, Bacorn tries to relate to students by getting to know them through their interests.
“I try to build rapport with students and see what kind of sports they play because I’m big into sports. If it’s something new to me like art, I would love to get to know that as well and see what piques their interest,” Bacorn said.
Officer Bacorn is ready to take on the year with goals of safety and wellness in mind, wishing the best for every student.
“I just want everyone to be safe and to enjoy their high school experience because it goes fast, you only have one time to be a high schooler. I’m here to ensure that time is enjoyed, and to keep this campus safe,” Bacorn said.
The purpose of a school resource officer is to create a safe environment, so don’t hesitate to reach out when you see Officer Bacorn around school. He is excited to see what the school year entails, and is a wonderful new addition to campus.
