A police officer serving in an Arkansas school district is being highlighted across the nation for the care and compassion he shows toward the students and staff he works with each day.
DeAndra Warren, a member of the Police Department in Wynne, a community in eastern Arkansas, works as a student resource officer (SRO) in the Wynne Public Schools, traveling daily to each of the districts elementary, junior, and high school facilities.
But every morning before going on duty he begins his day at one of the school’s flag poles, where he takes a few moments to bow his head and pray for the students, faculty, and staff he serves.
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Recently Warren’s daughter posted a photo of her father on social media with the caption: “Often you don’t see an officer on school grounds at the flag pole praying for our children! I know this amazing Man of God who prays for our school systems, your children, and our community every day faithfully! This outstanding man is my dad and I’m so proud to be his daughter! There’s not too many people out here in this world like him! Officer Warren we are so thankful for you!”
The 40-year-old Warren, who has served on the Wynne police force for the past seven years, told a local news source: “I’ve been praying for the students ever since I started being a SRO, but I started last year standing at the flagpole. I don’t do it to be seen, but I do it to glorify my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To God be the Glory!”
Warren observed that “with the negativity in our world today towards our nation, law enforcement, communities, and school systems, prayer is much needed.” He added that “it’s just time for America to turn back to God, and praying at the flag pole that holds the American flag is a way for me to stand in the gap for not just the students in Wynne, Arkansas, but for all students in America.”
Warren, who also ministers at his local church, explained that he felt led to begin praying for the students and staff he works with after reading 2 Chronicles 7:14 in the Bible: “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”
He emphasized the satisfaction he gets from being able to be an influence on students from kindergarten through high school. “I enjoy showing them the positive side of law enforcement,” said Warren, “from giving them high-fives or just a simple word of encouragement.”
Photo of Officer DeAndra Warren: Facebook
