WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. (NOV. 9, 2026) — Loyalsock Township School District’s six School Police Officers (SPOs) provide more than a visible security presence. They are familiar faces who work each day to build relationships, identify potential concerns and help create a safe environment for students and staff.

The district’s SPOs — Derek Hartman, Mike Knight, Paul McGee, Bret Myers, David Podgorney and Tim Pohlig — work closely with administrators, staff and local emergency responders. Knight also serves as the district’s Act 55 School Safety & Security Coordinator, helping coordinate the district’s safety and security efforts.

“Being present in our schools every day allows us to build relationships with students and staff and become people they know and trust,” Knight said. “A big part of our job is being proactive — identifying concerns, addressing them early and making sure our schools are prepared for whatever situations may arise.”

Much of that work happens behind the scenes. SPOs monitor school buildings and grounds, participate in emergency planning and drills, communicate with district personnel, and coordinate with local law enforcement and emergency responders. Their role extends well beyond responding to an incident.

That preparation is supported by multiple layers of security throughout the district, including 243 security cameras, controlled main entrances with camera identification, electronic key-fob access, two-way radios and the Raptor visitor management system.

Students and staff also participate in annual emergency preparedness training, while schools conduct monthly evacuation drills and regular lockdown/intruder, bus evacuation and weather drills. During a lockdown, students and staff are trained in the “Locks, Lights Out, Stay Out of Sight” protocol and receive annual instruction in “Run, Hide, Fight” principles for an active threat.

Together, trained personnel, established procedures, technology and partnerships with local law enforcement create a layered approach to school safety — one designed not only to respond when something happens, but to help prevent concerns and keep Loyalsock schools safe, secure and welcoming every day.

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Originally published in the fall 2026 edition of Lancer Life.

At top are School Police Officers Derek Hartman, Tim Pohlig, Mike Knight, also the district’s Act 55 School Safety & Security Coordinator, and Paul McGee. Inset: SPOs Bret Myers, left, and David Podgorney.