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SCHOOL RESOURCE DEPUTIES OF THE YEAR HONORED

School Resource Deputies are a unique combination of law enforcement officer, teacher, counselor, friend, adviser, moderator and school volunteer. And in 2004, no one did the job better than Deputies Pat Leahy and Sylvia Gainer. The Volusia County School District recently honored the duo for their selection as the top middle school and high school SRDs of the year.

Deputy Leahy serves as SRD at DeLand Middle School and Deputy Gainer is an SRD at Atlantic High School in Port Orange.

“It takes a special kind of Deputy to be an SRD,” said Sheriff Ben Johnson. “I’m extremely proud of Pat and Sylvia for the exceptional rapport they’ve developed with the students, faculty and parents. They’re making a big difference at their schools, and I’m pleased to see their efforts being recognized.”

First and foremost, SRDs enforce the law to help maintain campus safety and an orderly learning environment. But the job doesn’t end there. SRDs take part in classroom education and after-school activities, field trips, athletics, academics and community service projects. They also act as positive role models by counseling and mentoring students to help guide them towards a path of success.

Deputy Leahy was nominated for the annual award by DeLand Middle School Principal Matthew Krajewski.

“He routinely visits the classrooms conducting lessons on choices, citizenship, bullying and substance abuse,” Krajewski said of Deputy Leahy in his letter of nomination. “His caring attitude and superior knowledge of the law make him effective with all students and staff.”

Craig Zablo, Assistant Principal at Atlantic High School, had equally glowing remarks about Deputy Gainer, including a program she launched to provide positive reinforcement to troubled students who change their ways.

“Deputy Gainer not only looks for opportunities to interact with students in a positive manner, she also creates them,” said Zablo. “Her enthusiasm, work effort and love of children are absolute.”

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