Johnson says a $125,000 grant, which has been submitted, would allow for the placement of a certified officer in the local school for 35-40 hours a week.

Thirteen West Virginia counties have such an officer, she said.

While the officer would provide security duties, time would be spent in teaching prevention issues and building a relationship with the student body.

School board members praised Johnson for her pro-active work in the school system, dealing with alcohol, drugs and tobacco problems.