SRO Deputy Robertson exemplifies a rare combination of law enforcement, mentorship, and community leadership that truly changes young lives. With 17 years of distinguished service in law enforcement, including roles with the local police department and county sheriff's office, SRO Deputy Robertson found his true calling in 2020 when he became a school resource officer for Carbon County School District #1. During his tenure with the police department, he served as a K9 officer, developing skills in partnership and patience that would later enhance his ability to connect with and mentor students.
His exceptional service to the community has been recognized repeatedly throughout his career. Most recently, he was awarded his third Departmental Lifesaving Medal in June 2024 for his heroic efforts in saving a local citizen's life. This remarkable achievement of earning three lifesaving medals throughout his law enforcement career exemplifies his unwavering commitment to protecting and serving others, whether as a school resource officer or a first responder in critical situations.
What sets SRO Deputy Robertson apart is his commitment to school safety and his genuine passion for seeing students succeed both in and beyond the classroom. As an alumnus of the very high school he now serves, his deep connection to the community adds an invaluable dimension to his role. This commitment to his alma mater has earned him recognition as Alumni of the Month by the school board, highlighting the lasting impact he continues to have on his home community.
His dedication to public service extends far beyond the school walls. As a Carbon County Avalanche Observation Team member, Deputy Robertson demonstrates his commitment to community safety in all its forms. This comprehensive approach to public service enriches his work with students, showing them firsthand the importance of community involvement and civic responsibility.
SRO Deputy Robertson's impact on the school atmosphere is transformative. Through close collaboration with teachers and administrators, he has created an integrated approach to student support that can be used both in and outside the classroom. His extensive training, including attendance at national school resource conferences, enables him to deliver crucial education on driving safety, substance abuse prevention, respect, and responsible social media use. His approachability and genuine interest in students' well-being make these lessons resonate with them.
His commitment to nurturing student development extends far beyond his official duties. In addition to his role as assistant soccer coach at the high school, SRO Deputy Robertson regularly facilitates job shadowing opportunities for students interested in law enforcement careers, demonstrating his dedication to helping shape their future paths. His participation in programs like Shop With a Cop and his consistent presence at school sports and activities show students that he cares about their lives inside and outside the classroom.
The most touching example of Deputy Robertson's extraordinary impact was when he organized a remarkable birthday surprise for a middle school student who used a wheelchair. Coordinating with the community, he arranged for a life flight helicopter to land at the high school stadium, giving the student an unforgettable flight experience surrounded by classmates and friends. This act of kindness perfectly encapsulates his ability to transform ordinary moments into life-changing experiences.
Deputy Robertson's leadership extends throughout the district, where he has become a sought-after speaker and visitor at various schools. Through his role at Camp Postcard, he dedicates time to building bridges between law enforcement and youth nationwide, fostering understanding and trust that extends well beyond his immediate community. Students' eager requests for his presence reflect the trust and respect he has earned through his consistent demonstration of high moral and ethical standards.
"In SRO Deputy Robertson, we see the embodiment of a true LifeChanger – someone who doesn't just serve his community, but transforms it through dedication, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to young people's success. His impact reaches far beyond the traditional roles of a school resource officer, creating lasting, positive changes in students' lives that will resonate for generations to come," said the nominator.