Overlea High Resource Officer Named SRO of the Year

Officer Danielle Moore, a member of the Baltimore County Police Department since 2012, has been named 2020 Floyd Ledbetter National SRO (School Resource Officer) of the Year by the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO).

Officer Moore has served as a school resource officer at Overlea High School since 2018.

“Officer Moore has quickly made an impression on Overlea High School’s scholars, families, and staff,” said Baltimore County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Darryl L. Williams. “She serves the school community in a way that affirms each student’s potential and promotes a healthy school climate. We are so thankful for her service and so proud of her for earning this national honor.”

According to Overlea High Principal Monica Sample, Officer Moore is the school’s “biggest cheerleader” and someone who “demonstrates commitment, loyalty, empathy, discipline, and diplomacy” and interacts with students “in a positive and restorative manner.”

“Many female scholars,” Sample wrote, “consistently approach Officer Moore for guidance, support, and mentorship with social-emotional issues. She is viewed by many as an honorary mother who represents confidence, optimism, and hope.”

Three of the many ways that Officer Moore contributes to the school culture are by serving as co-coordinator of the female mentoring I.T. Girls of Overlea High School, as a member of the Overlea student support team, and as a member of the Restorative Practices team. According to Sample, Officer Moore has “conducted over 100 restorative conferences,” thereby preventing numerous altercations in the school and community.

“SRO Moore is non-judgmental in her role and gives each scholar endless opportunities and support despite their disciplinary histories,” Sample wrote. “She inspires and gives hope to our scholars that each day is a new day and that our scholars are all capable of being model citizens who will make a great impact on society.”

Mo Canady, executive director of NASRO, said of Officer Moore, “It is apparent that she demonstrates the SRO Triad Concept in serving as a coach and mentor, educator, and law enforcement officer while seeking opportunities to serve her school community. It is our privilege to bestow this honor to one who exemplifies the title of school resource officer so well.”

Officer Moore will receive her award during the Aug. 5 opening ceremonies of the virtual 30th Annual NASRO School Safety Conference.