UCPS names Sun Valley High School officer as top SRO

MONROE – Michael Gallagher prioritizes safety and trust at Sun Valley High School, proactively reducing incidents to maintain a secure learning environment. However, it is his relationships with the students that he values most. 

Students, especially those with limited positive interactions with law enforcement, have found solace and guidance in Gallagher's presence. For him, the trust students place in him speaks volumes.

“I want students to understand that they can come to me with questions or concerns,” Gallagher said. “We are there to enforce the laws and to keep the school safe but after that we have to consider that for some students, school is the best six and half hours in their day. I am there as a mentor, too."

Gallagher was named the 2023-24 UCPS School Resource Officer of the Year. He will be nominated as the Union County candidate for the 2024 North Carolina School Resource Officer of the Year.

"This was totally unexpected. Everyone there was a talented SRO, so I never considered the fact that I might win," Gallagher said. "We don't do it for the recognition because it's a calling, but it is nice to have others understand the work we do and appreciate it." 

Gallagher has worked as the Sun Valley school resource officer for three years. He joined the Union County Sheriff's Office after 20 years of experience at the Shrewsbury Police Department in New Jersey. During his time with the agency, he received the Life Saving Award twice.

Beyond his law enforcement duties, Gallagher is involved in the community, organizing events like the touch-a-truck event with the school's Transition To Adulthood class and facilitating the donation of K-9 Griff to the Union County Sheriff's Office. 

His engagement extends to supporting and comforting families in their time of need. Gallagher highlights the importance of the “resource” part of his title, emphasizing the crucial role school resource officers play in offering help and guidance to students, families and staff. Gallagher stresses consistency and active involvement in the school community, promoting ongoing engagement as the best form of communication.

“This is my 26th year in education and I've been a principal at several locations and have been fortunate to work with some great officers,” Principal Mike Harvey said. “He's all about the kids and they know it. They look to him for advice. He's well-liked and I am fortunate to have him on our team.”