One of the most important pieces of gear School Resource Officer Michael Miklus' brings to work is a bouncy ball.
Standing in the halls of Canyon View High School, he tosses the ball to students as they walk by — sharing a smile and laugh, opening a conversation.
That's why the Buckeye Police Department officer says he's passionate about his job and it's why he was inducted into the Agua Fria Union High School District's Hall of Fame.
Miklus describes his work as being part officer, part mentor and part educator. He's worked at BPD for 18 years as an SRO, patrol officer, detective, field training officer, driving/pit instructor and as a member of the drone unit. Prior to that, he was an officer in Ohio. Being an SRO focuses more on "community relations," he said, and emphasizes building relationships.
It's saying good morning, showing up to sporting events and plays, attending meetings with parents and hosting educational programs. For example, he's coordinated mock crash scenarios with CVHS and Verrado High School in partnership with Banner Health, Buckeye Fire Medical Rescue Department and Arizona Fire and Medical Authority.
He also is involved with juvenile justice programs including diversion education to prevent vaping, which is illegal in Arizona for those less than 18 years. He is also looking into creating a "teen court" at CVHS which puts students from local schools in the role of judge and jury for their peers. It is in the initial stages of development.
Every day is different as an SRO, Miklus said, and he said his role is to meet kids where they are at that particular day — doing what he can to support them and be a role model.
"You never know if you're the only person who can connect with that kid," he said.
