20 Under 40: John Calvert
In his role, John works with each of the 286 Kansas school districts to create and maintain safe environments for Kansas children to learn and grow. As a former member of the Jackson County Sheriff's office and Prairie Band Potawatomi Tribal Police Department, John served in roles within the school systems as a resource officer. He also served as a member to the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) and the Kansas Juvenile Officers Association.
John believes that our community's children are the most important asset and he spends his volunteer time with youth as a referee for the Upward Sports program, leading youth groups in his local church or volunteering to share the role foster care plays in a child's educational journey.
"I do my best every day to show each child that I come into contact with that I care about them and their well-being"
What keeps you young?
I was born on leap year and only get a birthday every four years. That will always keep me young. I believe that I am the youngest 20 Under 40 honoree at just 9 years old! In all seriousness, I think being able to interact with students from all over the state is what keeps me young. Their world, even for just a moment, gives me the energy and confidence to strive to make a difference.
What advice would you give yourself 10 years ago?
10 years ago, I was a police officer working 2nd shift, ready to change the world. I would tell myself not to focus on changing the world, but to try and change one person's life for the better.
How did you decide to pursue the career you are in today?
I am John Calvert the 6th (we all have different middle names). I was a 2nd/3rd shift police officer whose goal was to be on a SWAT team and a K9 handler. I had a daughter, but I had to try for a boy to carry on the name! My wife told me that she was tired of being a "single mom" and if we wanted another baby, I had to get onto a shift that would give her some help. The only 1st shift spot that was open was the School Resource Officer position at Royal Valley School District. I stepped into the hallways and enjoyed every second of my six years in the schools. When the KSDE opened up the Safe and Secure Schools Unit, it was a HUGE struggle as to what I wanted to do. I am truly passionate about the safety of every student and staff member in our schools, but I knew that I was having a positive impact on the schools in Jackson County. The day before I was offered the position at KSDE, I still wasn't sure what I wanted to do. My daughter (7 at the time), asked me if I loved the kids at Royal Valley more than her. I said, "of course not, why would you ask that." And she responded by telling me that I spent all my time there with the students. It was at that moment that I knew where God wanted me. Now my daughter asks me why I am always home! And yes, I did get a boy, John Calvert (the 7th!)
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