LMS Student Activities

Building a Partnership with the Community We Serve

Project "Shattered Dreams"

“Shattered Dreams” is an educational experience that illustrates
the tragic consequences of underage drinking and irresponsible driving.
The “Shattered Dreams” program involves an on-campus dramatization
of an alcohol-related crash, complete with police, fire and EMS response.

For more information on underage drinking, visit the following websites:
South Carolina MADD
MADD Youth in Action
Ask, Listen and Learn (Sponsored by the Century Council and Nickelodeon)
SC Highway Patrol Final Exam
Leadership to Keep Children Alcohol Free
US Dept of Justice Report on the Costs of Underage Drinking

Questions and Answers	Emergency Numbers	Contact Information	Anonymous School Crime Tip Line: (888) NO BULLY
Drug Information	Gang Information	State by State Traffic Fatalities	Guidelines for Safe Driving
Information for Crime Victims	Why Police Officers Stop People	What To Do When You Are Stopped by an Officer	Lexington Police Dept. On-line Officer Evaluation
The SRO Model	Mission Statement	SRO Links	Town of Lexington Police Dept.

What is a School Resource Officer (SRO)?

The School Resource Officer is a police officer assigned strictly to a school in his/her jurisdiction.

What services does a SRO provide?

(1) Law Enforcement Education
(2) Crime Prevention Programs
(3) Counseling & Referral Services
(4) Follow Up Contact
(5) Victim's Advocate For Students

The SRO position is a resource for students, faculty, administration, parents, and the community. The SRO acts as a liaison between theses groups and works with them to secure a safe school. The SRO is also a role model for students.

Examples of topics that the SRO can present:

Stress Management/Conflict Resolution
Alcohol & Tobacco Use
Searches & Seizures
Personal Protection
SRO Position
Gangs
Substance Abuse
Bill of Rights
Drug Dogs (K-9 Class)

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What should you do if you become a victim of a crime?

Notify the proper authorities
Cooperate with law enforcement
Advise of address changes
Immediately report any harassment or intimidation

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We care about your safety!
Please use the following guidelines when you drive:

Always insure that you and all your passengers are buckled up
Don't drink and drive - nearly half of all fatal crashes are alcohol related
If you drink, use a designated driver
Observe and obey posted speed limits - speeding fines are expensive and may cause your insurance rates to increase
Don't be a "road shark" - impatient and aggressive drivers are becoming increasingly common on our roadways
Drive with respect and courtesy
Avoid distractions while driving - such as using cell phones, eating or drinking, applying make-up, reading or disciplining children

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There are many different reasons why you might be stopped by the police. Whatever the reason, the officer needs your cooperation:

The police may want to warn you about a potentially dangerous situation.
You may have committed a traffic violation.
Your vehicle may match the description of one used in a criminal act.
The officer might think you are in trouble and need help.
You may have witnessed a crime.

If you are stopped by the police while driving, you may feel confused, anxious or even angry. These are natural feelings, but remember, traffic stops can also be stressful an ddangerous for the police officer. Each year, a number of law enforcement officers are killed or seriously injured while making the "routine" traffic stop. Police officers are especially vulnerable during the hours of darkness.

Remember, please be courteous and cooperative during any stop by the police.

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When you see the blue overhead lights and/or hear the siren, remain calm, slow down and pull over in a safe location off the roadway.
Do not exit your vehicle unless asked to do so. This is for safety reasons.
Keep you hands on the steering wheel so the officer can see tham.
Inform the officer of any weapons in your vehicle and their location. Do not reach or point to the location.
Avoid any sudden movements, especially toward the floorboard, rear seat or passenger side of the vehicle.
Comply with the officer's request to see your drivers license, proof of insurance and vehicle registration. South Carolina law requires you to carry these with you.
If your documents are out of reach, tell the officers where they are before you reach for them.
If there are passengers in your vehicle, encourage them to remain quiet and cooperate with instructions. You, as the operator, are solely responsible for your vehicle and its' occupants.
Avoid becoming argumentative. Arguing will not change the officer's mind. If you conteest the violation, you will have the opportunity to address the matter in court.
Answer all questions truthfully.
The officer may issue you a ticket. If you feel the reason is vague or unclear, politely ask the officer for details.
You have the right to politely deny a request by a police officer to search your car; however, if probable cause is present, the officer has the right to search your vehicle without your consent.

Understand that each situation is unique and the police officer must alter his or her response to fit the circumstance. Generally, a police officer:

Will provide his/her name upon request
Will inform a person of the reason for being stopped
Will only arrest a person for a crime committed in the officer's presence, or when the officer has probable cause to believe the person has already committed the crime

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The mission of the SRO at Lexington Middle School is to work with
the district, principals and teachers in providing the safest possible
learning environment where students can concentrate on their education.

The SRO will always conduct himself in the highest professional manner
and provide a positive role model for students and parents alike.

The SRO is commited to serve the needs of students, educators
and the surrounding community and will strive for improvement
in every facet of the position.

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