School resource officer Marcus Horne enjoys going to Gardner Newman Middle School everyday to connect with students. With 13 and half years of experience in law enforcement, Horne has been the school’s resource officer for a year and a half. 

Originally from Miami, Florida, Horne’s family moved to LaGrange because his father was in the U.S. Army. 

As a resource officer, Horne works for the LaGrange Police Department.

Horne said he makes sure to keep the school safe and free from disruptions to student learning. Horne also teaches students about bullying and laws juveniles can get in trouble for.

Horne said he also builds relationships with students, helps them with life skills and listens to them when they need someone to talk to.

Horne said one of the challenges of his job is dealing with students who use social media to bully classmates.

“A lot of times it does disrupt the learning environment, and it causes conflicts between some children when they’re using it irresponsibly, like saying negative things about each other on social media,” Horne said.

Horne said his favorite part about working at GNMS are the staff and students.

“It’s a very diverse population, which makes it very interesting and fun,” Horne said. “I meet kids from all different backgrounds, all types of homes. Everyone here has a common goal to make these kids the best that they can be. That’s the easy part, having a staff that works together for a common goal.”

Horne said one of his favorite memories working at the school was helping with a student who was having challenges in school.

“I spent some time with the child just constantly talking to them and telling them about their behavior, improving their grades and to be respectful,” Horne said. “I recently saw them and their mother over the summer, and they were on their way to the high school. The mother said they are improving.”

Outside of work, Horne said he enjoys spending time with his family and fishing.