ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – The first day of school in St. Johns County went smoothly, with a strong emphasis on student safety and leadership, according to Sheriff Robert Hardwick and students at St. Augustine High School.
“We are the oldest,” one student said.
The Link Crew, a group of students who mentor freshmen, showed News4JAX the ropes, emphasizing the responsibility that comes with being a leader.
“You are the leader of the school, have to be at your best at all times,” a student said.
In the hallways, safety was clearly a priority. Students buzzed into the office using secure access, a routine done with care.
“We take that very seriously,” one student said.
Outside the halls, News4JAX spoke with Sheriff Hardwick about parents’ concerns as he visited multiple schools throughout the day.
“We always tell the parents things are the best they can be under the current circumstances,” he said.
Hardwick explained the district’s approach to safety, including two threat assessments and deputies who utilize the Fortify Florida app to evaluate tips and threats. He also spoke about having deputies hand-picked for each school.
“We want you to know that your kids are in a better place,” he said.
Students like Hazel Wallman have built strong connections with their school resource officers. Wallman even helped design Deputy Ramos’ patrol car.
“It was a lot of going back and tedious work,” Wallman said.
For students and deputies, building these relationships helps create a safer, more supportive school environment.
This sense of security allows students to focus on school spirit and their classes, buzzing with excitement.
Also in St. Johns County, the sheriff’s office is holding mandatory e-bike safety classes for sixth- and seventh graders, taught by school resource officers.
