The Hilliard Davidson High School community will get to know a new face in a familiar uniform this year.
City of Hilliard Division of Police Officer Ian King will take on the role of school resource officer (SRO) at the high school this August. Officer King will serve in the position for the next four years.
“We’re excited to have Officer King join our team in the schools this year,” said Chief of Police Michael Woods. “His interactions with young people as a patrol officer have demonstrated his keen ability to build relationships, and we know that is essential in this role to create safe and secure learning environments.”
There are a total of six SROs working inside Hilliard City Schools. One officer is assigned at each of the three middle schools and three high schools in the district to embed themselves in the school’s culture. Officers also make regular contact at the elementary schools.
School resource officers fulfill multiple roles in addition to preventing and responding to school-based crime. Officers provide valuable support to students, teachers and staff through their everyday presence and visibility.
“We are proud of our continued partnership with the City of Hilliard Division of Police and our SROs. By having SROs present in our schools, we are enhancing security measures and fostering positive relationships that contribute to a safer environment,” said Superintendent David Stewart. “Building these connections between law enforcement and our school community is integral to our mission of creating a conducive learning space for everyone.”
Officer King has served as a Hilliard police officer since 2019, primarily as a second-shift patrol officer for the past four years. Previously, he served as a police officer for three years in North Carolina.
He is originally from Painesville, Ohio, where he was one of seven children and graduated from Thomas W. Harvey High School.
Additionally, Officer King is a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corp, in which he served nine years, ending his term of service as an infantry sergeant. He is married with two children.
Officer King said he hopes to build a rapport with students and staff by being accessible daily.
“I want them to learn to trust and rely on law enforcement for help, and to be there when they need them,” said Officer King. “When I was In high school, we had a school resource officer, so I know firsthand the benefits of having a police officer in the building.”
“And as a father, I know the feeling of wanting my children to be safe and secure while attending school,” he said. “Having an SRO present in the schools helps to provide that feeling, and I’m looking forward to playing a role in that.”
Fun Facts About Officer King
What were your high school activities? Football, basketball, baseball, and class clown
What’s the last movie you watched? The Super Mario Bros. Movie with my kids
If you weren’t a police officer, what would be your job? Firefighter. I can’t believe I said that!
What was your favorite school lunch? Cheeseburger
What are your hobbies? Hiking, bicycling, and exploring Metro Parks with my family
Have any favorite sports teams? The Ohio State Buckeyes
