New school resource officer, Jennifer Ganino, has joined CHS to preserve the physical and psychological safety on campus for both staff and students. Ganino’s job is not only to help ensure a safe learning environment at school, but also to educate any students who are curious about the law enforcement field.

“My main hope is to ensure a safe environment for everyone,” Ganino said. “I’d also ideally like to be an example for those who wish to pursue a career in law enforcement, or for anyone, for that matter, who is desirous of a role model.”

Ganino has replaced Corporal Evans by taking over the School Resource Officer and Drug Abuse Resistance Education Officer position. She has been a part of the Claremont Police Department for three and a half years, and prior to that, she was a part of the San Bernardino County Sheriff Department for three and a half years. Before working for the police department, Ganino worked for six years in the United States Army as a part of the Communication and Repair personnel. There, she worked in places such as Kosovo, Bosnia, and Iraq.

“We’re excited to have Officer Ganino on board. She’s very responsible with students, easily available, and energetic. We’re glad to have her,” guidance counselor Chivalo Anderson said.

Ganino’s two main goals were to save lives and make a difference in a life, and her job as a police officer meets them both. In order to maintain safety around campus, Ganino is constantly in areas where she is easily visible and is very responsive to student needs whether it be for discipline, counseling, or mentoring.

In addition to her appointment at CHS, she also works with kids as the Claremont Explorer Post 4-1-1 Adviser, which is a volunteer organization sponsored by Learning for Life and Boy Scouts of America. Post meetings are held twice a week
on Tuesdays at the Claremont Police Department from five to six o’clock. Membership in the Post is contingent upon successful completion of the academy within one year of acceptance into the program. Its purpose is to encourage interest in a career in law enforcement while guiding students to build character by promoting self-confidence, discipline, and goalsetting. It is open to boys and girls between the age of 14.5 and 21, and CHS students are welcome to get involved as well.

“If you’re ready to challenge yourself and contribute to the greater good, please come see me,” Ganino said.

Although the sight of an armed figure of authority roaming the hallsof CHS can be intimidating, Officer Ganino is understanding, funny, and kind.

“The first thing I want everyone to know about me is that you don’t have to be scared of me,” Ganino said. “Everyone seems to be afraid of me.”

Officer Ganino is a great extension to the staff of CHS, and she enjoys getting to be a part of the CHS community. She hopes to keep all of the staff and students safe and to help create a comfortable learning environment. Ganino and her good energy has had a positive impact on CHS.