COLUMBIA CITY, IN - Whitley County Consolidated Schools (WCCS) congratulates dedicated Student Resource Officer (SRO) Brian Anspach, who retires on January 16 after a distinguished career in law enforcement and school safety.
A second-generation police officer, Anspach has served the Columbia City Police Department since May 1989 and has been a crucial part of WCCS's safety team since 2016. Following Officer Petersen's retirement, Anspach stepped into the SRO role, continuing the district's commitment to student safety. 
“Being a School Resource Officer has been the most rewarding position. It is the best position until something happens to one of our students or staff members. I do believe we have the best students and staff,” said Brian Anspach, WCCS Student Resource Officer.
With a career spanning multiple law enforcement roles, Anspach began as a police dispatcher and fire truck operator before becoming a patrolman. Throughout his career, he has held positions including detective, sergeant, captain, and patrol sergeant.
Primarily serving Columbia City High School, Anspach also supported Northern Heights and Mary Raber Elementary schools. As an SRO, he played a critical role in maintaining school safety, preventing crime, and serving as a mentor to students.
“Becoming a police officer has been a life’s dream. As a second-generation police officer, my father and I have combined public service that spans nearly 70 years,” Anspach said.
SROs work on the school district safety team and are instrumental in maintaining safety and preventing crime within the school environment. They respond to incidents and act as a mentor, educator and counselor to students while working closely with staff to help create a positive school environment. Our SROs at WCCS serve as a link between law enforcement and the school community.
“Brian has provided expertise for safety and keeps staff and students safe but also helps do welfare checks, home visits, and leads investigations. There is a tremendous balance between his role as an officer, mentor and role model for students. We are sad to see him go,” said Lyle Kuhmichel, WCCS Director of Safety and Student Services.
Building relationships is something Officer Anspach does well, too.
“While Brian upheld his job with the most seriousness, it will be hard to not have a friend to sing karaoke with during lunch for the students. It has been an absolute pleasure to work with Brian,” said Brady Mullett, Columbia City High School Principal.
Officer Anspach’s replacement is Officer Fuller. During the 2019 school year, a second SRO was added to WCCS. The SROs continue to be an asset to our WCCS community.
“We are blessed with Mr. Fuller and I am so proud of him for taking my place. He will be a big asset to our school. I thank everyone for the opportunity to serve in this position – it has been my pleasure,” Anspach said.
Whitley County Consolidated Schools extends its deepest gratitude to Brian Anspach for his years of service and commitment to student safety.
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About Whitley County Consolidated Schools
Whitley County Consolidated Schools (WCCS) is dedicated to providing a high-quality education that empowers all students to achieve their full potential. Serving Columbia City and surrounding communities, WCCS believes in fostering a learning environment that promotes academic excellence, personal growth, and character development. With a commitment to innovation and collaboration, our district offers a diverse curriculum, dedicated educators, and state-of-the-art facilities designed to inspire and engage every learner. Through partnerships with families and the community, WCCS strives to prepare students for success in a rapidly changing world. For more information about our schools, programs, and initiatives, visit us at [www.wccsonline.com](https://www.wccsonline.com).
Media Contact
Dr. Laura McDermott, WCCS Superintendent mcdermottla@wccsonline.com
Kennedy Saggars, WCCS Marketing Director saggarskt@wccsonline.com