It’s time for Page Two, news that might not make the front page for Monday January 26, 2026.
Palmer police officer Keith Barkwood serves as a school resource officer, called an SRO, at Palmer High School. He emphasizes that SROs are in schools to build relationships with students, not look for misconduct. The job follows the model of the National Association of School Resource Officers. It is divided into three parts: law enforcement, teaching, and informal counseling.
Barkwood is in his sixth year as an SRO. He notes that the role is challenging. It’s one of the most stressful jobs in law enforcement. It involves children and their well-being. He has shifted from a patrol mindset to focus on connection, trust, and being a consistent adult presence for students. He has watched multiple classes graduate. He forms strong bonds with students and stays in touch with some after graduation.
Beyond traditional duties, he started the Mat-Su Explorer Post 400 in 2023 with the Palmer Police Department, the Wasilla Police Department and the State Troopers. The program provides training, experience, and insight into careers in law enforcement for youth aged 14 to 20.
Barkwood also runs a large Dungeons & Dragons club with over 75 students. The club promotes creativity, social connection, and inclusion. It hosts events like NerdCon and organizes local and out-of-state trips. This summer the club will take a trip to New York City to visit museums, Broadway, and cultural landmarks. Barkwood has secured grants, sponsors, and scholarships to make participation accessible to more students.
He returns to patrol work and participates in community-focused policing outside the school year. He does e-bike patrols and events like “Bike with the Blue.” These strengthen the relationships between the police and the community. Barkwood notes that the positive connections built during the school year carry over into summer patrols. Kids recognize and trust him.
Barkwood demonstrates the meaningful relationships SROs can have with students. He blends safety, mentorship, creativity, and community engagement far beyond traditional policing.
You can listen to last week’s interview with Officer Barkwood.
Page 2 airs weekdays at 7 a.m., 9 a.m., 11:55 a.m., and about 6 p.m.
Please support Page 2 News. Pick.Click.Give to Big Cabbage Radio when you file online for your PFD.
This Page Two article was written by Mike Chmielewski and read by Lee Henrikson. If you have an idea for a Page 2 topic, please email us at page2@radiofreepalmer.org.