05/19/2026
The Grady County Sheriff’s Office has been notified of the school board’s decision to move in a different direction regarding the School Resource Deputy (SRD) program at Middleberg School.
We recognize that decisions regarding school security are difficult, particularly given the current climate surrounding school violence. School Resource Deputies provide value beyond physical security by fostering a safe environment and building positive relationships with students and staff.
As a reminder, each Oklahoma school district receives approximately $93,000 annually for security improvements. Our current contract covers only the salary and benefits of the deputy, which falls below this amount and leaves additional funds available for other security needs. It is also important to note that Grady County Deputies are employed by the Sheriff’s Office rather than the school district. This ensures law enforcement remains neutral, enforcing state statutes rather than less restrictive school policies. If a district opts for private security, those individuals act as private citizens and do not hold the state-sanctioned authority of a licensed law enforcement officer. With this change, Middleberg will be the only in-person public school district in Grady County not participating in the School Resource Deputy program.
Our School Resource Deputies undergo mandatory annual training and frequently pursue additional instructor certifications, such as DARE. Over the past two years, the deputies assigned to Middleberg have consistently gone above and beyond to support your students. While we will no longer maintain a daily presence on campus, our office will continue to respond to all requests for law enforcement assistance.
Regarding historical data, our School Resource Deputies generated six reports in 2024, two in 2025, and one in 2026. Please be aware that mandatory reporting requirements remain in effect. Furthermore, the absence of an on-campus deputy may increase response times, as a deputy must now be dispatched to the scene. While we would prefer to maintain an assigned deputy at the school, current funding does not allow for this without the school district's financial assistance.
The Grady County Sheriff's Office remains committed to the safety of your students, parents, and staff, and our deputies will continue to maintain a proactive presence in the area as time permits.
Sheriff Gary Boggess