During School Resource Officer Appreciation, the School District of Lancaster proudly recognizes the officers who help shape the daily experience of our students. At McCaskey High School, Officer King and Officer Luciano are known not only for keeping the campus safe, but for the relationships they have built with students over time.
Officer King brings 21 years of experience as a police officer, including five years as a School Resource Officer. Officer Luciano brings 24 years of service, with 19 of those years dedicated to serving as an SRO. Their combined experience spans decades, yet what stands out most to students is not the number of years on the job. It’s how present they are.
Senior Sam Ruggiero shared that the officers are always engaged on campus. “I think they’re great. They’re always engaged with us,” he said. Sam has worked closely with them through the Outdoor Club, where both officers serve as chaperones and supporters of student-led initiatives.
Over the past few years, the Outdoor Club has grown into a meaningful space for students to connect outside the classroom. Members have attended outdoor shows, organized activities, and even traveled to Maine for a fishing trip. Sam explained that Officer King and Officer Luciano helped get the club up and running and supported the logistics that made those experiences possible. “They’re just like another teacher to have,” he said. “It’s really nice.”
That sense of accessibility carries throughout the building. Senior Jaden Vaughn reflected on meeting them during his freshman year. “I love our SROs. They’re really great,” he shared. “They introduced me to new people early and helped me out with my high school lifestyle.”
When Jaden first brought the idea of starting the Outdoor Club to them, he said they were immediately open and supportive. “They were super cool with the idea,” he said. “I couldn’t be more blessed.”
Through the club, students found found leadership opportunities and connection. On trips, students shared jokes and built memories alongside the officers. The dynamic felt natural. Students could laugh with them while still respecting the role they serve in the building.
Senior John Devine described that balance clearly. “They’re really engaged on campus. They’re always around and there to help us,” he said. “They don’t really come off as authoritative figures. They’re very friendly.”
John also pointed out that their support extends beyond extracurricular activities. They check in on classrooms. They ask about grades. They pay attention to how students are doing academically. That consistency builds familiarity, and familiarity builds trust.
Both officers emphasize that positive relationships with students, families, and staff are essential to their role. Officer King believes trust makes it easier to overcome obstacles throughout the year. Officer Luciano shares that strong relationships take time, but once built, they create comfort and accountability. When students feel connected to the adults in their building, they are more likely to ask for help, share concerns, and work together to solve problems.
Their personalities also help shape their presence. Both officers frequently use the thumbs up emoji, a simple symbol that mirrors the encouragement they offer daily. Officer King prefers peanut butter swirl ice cream. Officer Luciano prefers chocolate. Small details like these humanize the role and remind students that behind every badge is a person who cares.
Chris Krokos, Coordinator of Safety, reminds us that the most important impact often happens in small moments. Greeting students by name. Listening without judgment. Offering guidance. Being a consistent presence. These everyday interactions shape how students feel about their school environment.
Lt. Todd Grager of the Lancaster City Police Bureau describes each School Resource Officer as invaluable to the buildings they serve. The relationships they form help bridge the gap between the Police Bureau and the community. For many students, their SRO is the primary interaction they have with law enforcement.
Assistant Superintendent Dr. April Hershey reinforces that safety is rooted in relationships. A safe learning environment is created by adults who know students, understand school culture, and respond thoughtfully when challenges arise.
Perhaps the most meaningful reflection came from Jaden, who shared that he hopes to become a police officer one day. He views Officer King and Officer Luciano as role models, not only because of their careers, but because of how they treat people.
As we celebrate SRO Appreciation, we thank Officer King and Officer Luciano for their decades of service, their mentorship, and their consistent presence at McCaskey High School. Through relationship building, engagement, and support for student initiatives like the Outdoor Club, they help create a school community where students feel connected, encouraged, and safe.
At the School District of Lancaster, we are grateful for the everyday interactions that strengthen trust and help our students grow.