Last year, Josh Crain began a unique venture in law enforcement when he became the School Resource Officer for Northside Elementary. Officer Crain appreciates the positive environment of his new workplace. He thoroughly enjoys spending his days with students; he says, “These kids look up to you...It’s great interaction with the younger generation." Josh has made quite an impact on Northside Elementary; he is their recipient of the 2018-2019 Woodford Outstanding Service Award.
Ryan Asher, Principal of Northside, adds this remark about Josh, “Officer Crain goes above and beyond on a daily basis to make sure that he is doing his part to ensure Northside is a safe and positive place. He is very well liked by students, staff, and parents because of the way he conducts himself and the relationships he builds.”
Relationship-building is one of Josh’s strong suits. Though he is actively getting to know students and staff throughout each day and in every room and hallway of Northside, he explains that some of the most rewarding moments of his job occur on the playground. “Last year, I spent a lot of time with the Kindergarten class at recess helping them learn how to swing. It’s not my primary job responsibility, but it’s fun to help them.” He smiles and adds, “I have two daughters, so I like getting to help empower girls at a young age and help them get used to the playground...they learn how to go across the monkey bars by themselves. I help them, but now they can do it all on their own.” It is evident that Josh cares deeply for the students of Northside, not only for their safety but for their overall well-being, growth, and learning.
Officer Crain is very grateful for the opportunity to be working in a school and for the encouragement of families in the community regarding having officers in each school. “The parents have been very supportive. Throughout the district, there has been a lot of positive feedback from the community. I am really appreciative to the Board of Education and district for allowing law enforcement into the schools for safety...They had the foresight to look ahead. Adding this type of personnel will only enhance security.” The presence of officers in each of the Woodford County Public Schools has been a tremendous blessing for our community.
When asked how he has enjoyed working in the school system, Officer Crain says, “It’s a
team environment and very supportive...You depend on one another to get things done...It was an easier transition because of this.” Josh says that the award “is an honor,” especially since it came from his team. “I would rather give an award than receive an award, so I am very appreciative that I was nominated and received it. I could walk down the halls and give it to a number of other staff.”
Shelby Ison, Curriculum Coach at Northside, remarks, “Officer Crain became an integral part of the Northside family on day one! He truly understands what it means to do what's best for kids. He is not only diligent in keeping us safe but also takes the time to get to know students, staff and families on a personal level. Whether it is spending time with kids at recess, pitching in during lunch duty, or making sure our copiers are always filled with paper, he does whatever he can to make Northside a better place.” Josh continues to positively and uniquely contribute to the team at Northside, and we are thrilled to have his servant-hearted leadership in our school district.
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