Matt Miller hired as new Wayland schools’ public safety officer

Matt Miller, head of security at Crossroads Alternative High School in Kentwood for the past four years, has been hired as the Wayland Union school district’s public safety office.

Miller, a graduate of Hopkins High School who has two daughters who attend St. Therese Schools, succeeds the retiring Harry Werkema, who has served in the position since 2000.

Miller is in his eighth year working as a safety officer for Kentwood Public Schools.

“I enjoy my position at Crossroads High School, as it allows me the opportunity to build positive relationships with students as a mentor, a role model and a coach,” he posted on the Kentwood school’s web site. “The biggest reward I get from my job is being able to see students change their lives and then go on to succeed.”

A graduate of the Grand Rapids Community College Police Academy, he will undergo training for certification to carry a firearm in his Wayland job. It is not permitted in his job at Crossroads.

“I enjoy many outside hobbies such as hunting, fishing and skiing,” he noted on the web site. “However, my true love and passion in life is for sports. My involvement in sports has brought discipline to my life and has given me the skills necessary to be a good father, an influential coach, and a better human being. Being a part of sports has made me understand that if you are not willing to strive for more, then nothing good will ever come.”

Miller has coached baseball, basketball, softball and golf at all levels of high school athletics, but recently stepped on the other side of the line as an MHSAA umpire.

“This has allowed me the opportunity to stay very much a part of the game while continuing to help mold and direct young student athletes,” he explained.

Wayland Superintendent told the school board about the personnel move Monday evening at the work session. He said he hopes Miller will be able to come on board full time in May.

Board of Education Trustee Nancy Thelen, noting a proposal for him to have his office in the transportation building, said, “I’d like to have him be visible in a school building with students. I think it’s a valid place for a security officer to be based.”

Miller will use his own car and it will be well marked.

According to the school district’s proposed list of expenditures for the 2016-17 academic year, the salary, to be paid for by Gun Lake Casino funds, will be $59,547.