Attorney General Moody announces 2024 Florida School Resource Officer of the Year
Jul 15, 2024
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Attorney General Ashley Moody today announced the 2024 Florida School Resource Officer of the Year, Columbia County Sheriff Deputy Scott Ceckanowicz. Deputy Ceckanowicz has served as a school resource officer (SRO) for six years and is described by peers as being exceptionally attentive, demonstrating a keen awareness of the needs and concerns of both students and staff alike. He volunteers after hours to help with school projects.
Attorney General Ashley Moody stated, “School resource officers have a very important role in the safety and wellbeing of our students. The 2024 Florida School Resource Officer of the Year, Deputy Ceckanowicz, goes above and beyond to protect the children where he serves and ensures they have the tools they need to succeed in and out of the classroom. His dedication to the school he serves is unmatched and I am grateful for his service and the example he sets for our students.”
Columbia County Sheriff Mark Hunter commented, “Deputy Ceckanowicz’s dedication to our School Resource Unit and his passion for students is beyond measure. Everything he does for these kids, he does from the heart, not from obligation, and in doing so, strengthens the trust between the students and law enforcement.”
Known as Deputy Chewy to the students at Melrose Elementary, Deputy Ceckanowicz became a law enforcement officer in 2000 and began working at the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office 13 years ago.
Through steady support and encouragement, Deputy Ceckanowicz creates a positive and nurturing environment for students. Each morning, he can be seen giving each student that passes by a high five. Off duty, Deputy Ceckanowicz stays late to provide extra help with activities on campus and organize educational projects. Even on weekends, he has built shelves for teachers and fixed broken bicycles that are then donated to students who walk to school.
Deputy Ceckanowicz received the 2024 Florida School Resource Officer of the Year Award today at the Florida School Resource Officers Association Summer Conference.