The Otselic Valley School District recently hired new school resource officer Kent Smith in conjunction with the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office. (Otselic Valley School District Photo)

OTSELIC – The Otselic Valley School District recently hired Deputy Kent Smith as its school resource officer.

In a statement released on social media Otselic Valley School District representatives said their new school resource officer (SRO) Kent Smith is a sworn police officer with over 30 years' experience in law enforcement including boating and navigation patrol along with snow mobile enforcement in Chenango County. They said he most recently served as a sergeant in the New York State Courts.

The school reported that the resource officer’s primary role will be to maintain a safe, secure school environment while working together with administration.