Greg Gurney Named School Resource Officer of the Year for 2011

Greg Gurney, school resource officer at Salem Hills High, was named School Resource Officer of the Year 2011 by the State of Utah.

Part of Mr. Gurney’s application included this letter in part:
Assistant Principal, Brenda Burr, stated, “As the administrator in charge of emergency preparedness, I have looked to Officer Gurney for support. He helped design and implement our school emergency plan and continues to be part of training and updating our faculty on emergency procedures and prevention. He recently instigated and presented to our faculty an outstanding, informative, and inspirational prevention and preparation program on school violence. The impact on the faculty was amazing.  Many stated that for the first time they actually felt empowered and reassured rather than afraid. Greg has gained the trust of our faculty through his expertise, diligence, and caring nature. We simply feel safer because of him.

“Recently, I saw a former student from our high school. She is a completely different person than the sophomore that entered our school. Officer Gurney worked with her, and I believe it is directly due to his influence that this young woman changed her life. Officer Gurney has made this kind of difference in the lives of many of our students. At ball games or in the halls, the faces of students light up as he walks by. ‘Officer Gurney, what’s up?’ they call out as a handshake or high five is exchanged.

“Officer Gurney is present at our athletic events and acts as an example of sportsmanship and as a one hundred percent supporter of the Victory with Honor motto. He encourages our students in these high expectations.  He has helped Skyhawk spirit to become legendary and a shared source of pride for the school and community.”

Principal Bart Peery said, “Mr. Gurney does a great job! He really relates well with students. He knows how be firm when needed; yet, he is kind and loving and helps students through difficult times. This quality endears him to students. Mr. Gurney is truly making a difference in students’ lives.”

Photo:
Two state officials, Principal Bart Peery, Greg Gurney, Chief Brad James, another state official