When Blake Dukes walks through the halls of Centralia High School, he’s not just an officer on duty—he’s a mentor, a coach, and a trusted presence for students. As the school’s resource officer (SRO), Blake brings a unique mix of professionalism, warmth, and humor to his role.

“This job is about more than just keeping the peace,” Blake says. “It’s about being there for the kids, making them feel comfortable, and showing them that someone’s always looking out for them.”

Blake’s journey to becoming Centralia High School’s SRO began with a deep-rooted passion for law enforcement. A 1997 graduate of CHS, Blake followed in the footsteps of family members who inspired his career. After earning a degree in criminal justice, he joined the Central City Police Department, working in patrol and K-9 units before moving to the Centralia Police Department in 2008.

Over the years, Blake’s roles have spanned SWAT operations, narcotics investigations, and even serving on an FBI task force. But it was his experience coaching youth sports that ultimately led him to consider the SRO position. “I’ve been around kids for years through coaching, so when this opportunity came up, it just felt like a natural fit,” he says.

Blake’s typical day as an SRO is anything but predictable. From greeting students at the start of the day to making rounds through the cafeteria, his presence is both visible and approachable. “I joke around with the kids, give them a hard time, and they give it right back,” he laughs. “It’s all about building relationships.”

Those relationships extend beyond the school’s general population. Blake has formed special bonds with students in the school’s special education program, often involving them in his routine tasks like checking doors and delivering hall passes. “It’s the little things that make a big difference,” he says.

For Blake, the transition from street patrol to school halls has been a welcome change. “In law enforcement, you’re often dealing with tough situations,” he reflects. “Here, it’s a more positive environment. I love coming to work knowing I can make someone’s day better.”

Blake’s commitment to his community runs deep. A lifelong resident of Centralia, he takes pride in serving the town that raised him. “I’ve always wanted to give back to this place,” he says. “It’s where I grew up, and it’s where I want to make a difference.”

Students and staff alike value Blake’s presence, not just for the safety he provides but for the sense of connection he fosters. “He’s a role model for the kids,” says one teacher. “They see him as someone who genuinely cares.”

Looking ahead, Blake sees his role as an opportunity to continue strengthening the bonds between students and law enforcement. “It’s about building trust,” he says. “When students see me as someone they can talk to, it changes the whole dynamic.”

As he enters his second year as SRO, Blake Dukes is more than an officer on campus—he’s a steady hand, a familiar face, and a reminder that safety is built on the nature of trust and relationships as much as on the guardrails of rules.