During School Resource Officer Appreciation Week, the School District of Lancaster recognizes the individuals whose presence helps shape the tone and culture of our schools each day. Safety is essential, but what truly defines our School Resource and Security Officers is the relationships they build. Officer Houck exemplifies that commitment.
Officer Houck has worked in security for several years and has served as a School Security Officer for the past three years, including two years in the School District of Lancaster. Before entering this role, he was a teacher. That experience continues to influence how he approaches his work. He understands the rhythms of a school day. He understands students. Most importantly, he understands that connection comes first.
For Officer Houck, relationship building is a top priority. He believes that strong rapport with students, families, and staff not only makes the job enjoyable, but also helps deter and diffuse difficult situations before they escalate. When students know an adult cares about them, trust forms. When trust forms, challenges can be addressed with calm and clarity.
Students feel that difference.
Justin Rodriguez shared, “I really like him. He is nice, funny, and is there to help me out when needed.”
When asked about a specific moment, Justin described a day when something meaningful broke. He had saved up Dojo points to earn it and were understandably upset. “Officer Houck was there to help calm me down and help me fix the dragon that broke.”
That moment may seem small, but it speaks to the heart of the role. It is not only about responding to major incidents. It is about sitting beside a student when they are disappointed. It is about helping them regulate emotions. It is about fixing a broken dragon and restoring a sense of calm.
The same student shared what stands out most. “He is there every morning with a smile to greet me when I come into school.”
That consistency matters. As Chris Krokos reflected, the most important things often go unnoticed but have lasting impact. Greeting students by name. Listening without judgment. Offering guidance instead of punishment. Being a steady, positive presence. These daily interactions build trust and help create a supportive school climate.
Officer Houck brings authenticity and humor to his role. His most-used emoji is the head slap, a reflection of his lighthearted personality. His favorite ice cream is Cookies and Cream from Fox Meadows. These small details remind students that behind the uniform is someone relatable, approachable, and human.
Lt. Todd Grager, Community Engagement Lieutenant with the Lancaster City Police Bureau, supervises the School Resource Officers assigned to SDoL. He describes each officer as invaluable to their schools. The relationships they build help bridge the gap between the Police Bureau and the community. For many students, School Resource and Security Officers are the face of public safety. That daily visibility fosters familiarity and trust. Lt. Grager expressed gratitude for the collaborative partnership between SDoL leadership and the Lancaster City Police Bureau, noting that it strengthens how we serve families across the City of Lancaster.
Assistant Superintendent Dr. April Hershey emphasizes that safety is rooted in relationships. Effective School Resource and Security Officers are visible, trusted, and deeply connected to students, staff, and families. They help identify concerns early, respond thoughtfully, and support proactive problem solving. A safe learning environment is not defined solely by physical measures, but by adults who know students and ensure they feel supported and protected.
When asked what he would like to say to Officer Houck during SRO Appreciation Week, the student responded simply, “Thank you for your support.”
Those words reflect the quiet, everyday impact Officer Houck makes. Through patience, humor, and consistency, he helps create a school environment where students feel seen, heard, and safe.
We are grateful for Officer Houck and for all of our School Resource and Security Officers who serve the School District of Lancaster with care and dedication each day.