As you may know, we started the process of identifying a School Security Officer (SSO) in September. We began by working with our Long Range Safety Planning group, which is made up of parents, community members and staff, to discuss our needs and identify solutions. After the school board made the decision to hire a SSO we began the hiring process. We had a great pool of qualified applicants. Our interview process needed to be very thorough. Our SSO will not only provide armed support for our district to protect our students and staff, but will also develop positive relationships with all of our students. The best way for us to prevent a crisis is to have trusting relationships with our students. Throughout the interview process, there was a candidate that shined above all others. Mr. Matthew Stephens.
The connections that he made with our students, staff and community members were incredible. Mr. Stephens was a Stevens County Sheriff’s Deputy. He loved that position, but was hoping to be able to serve and protect in a different way. Matt is looking forward to working with our students and staff and being present in all of our buildings and classrooms. He will be at home athletic events to cheer on our Bulldog student athletes. Matt will lead our safety and security efforts moving forward and will be our liaison working with local law enforcement agencies. Matt lives in Colville with his wife and children on her family’s farm. When you see him around the district say hi and welcome him to our team.