Meet SV's Newest School Resource Officer Jon Atkinson

Meet Susquehanna Valley's newest School Resource Officer (SRO), Jon Atkinson. Born and raised in Broome County (grew up in Chenango Bridge, attended Chenango Valley Schools), Officer Atkinson spent just over 20 years with the Vestal Police Department before retiring May 24. "Five days later was my first day here at Richard T. Stank Middle School," he said. "It's a nice adjustment - I'm really looking forward to interacting with kids and making a difference. The kids have been great so far - a bunch have already called me their "besty." Officer Atkinson worked security at the Binghamton State Office Building prior to his service with the Vestal PD. Other SROs he has spoken with have had very positive experiences working in schools with young people. "One dynamic about police work is that interactions with the public are not always welcome or positive. It's much different in a school setting," he said. Welcome to SV, Officer Jon Atkinson!