News Release

LARWILL — Mikel VanDevender is Whitko Community Schools’ school resource officer starting with the 2025-26 school year. He replaces Nate Thomas.

Mikel VanDevender

VanDevender was assigned SRO June 30 by the South Whitley Town Council. He was  town marshal from Jan. 7, 2016 until June 30, 2025. He’s been with South Whitley Police Department for a total of 23 years. He will continue with the SWPD as chief deputy officer under Town Marshal Chad Schipper.

VanDevender began his career as a Whitley County Sheriff’s Department reserve officer and was a confinement officer at the Whitley County Jail for seven years, before joining the SWPD.

“As a graduate of Whitko, and being associated with Whitko schools all my professional career, I’m excited to serve the school district as SRO,” VanDevender said. “I look forward to working with all staff members and the great Whitko students in a timely and transparent manner. Our schools are the heart of our communities and the safety and security of everyone is my top priority.”

Whitko superintendent Dr. Amy Korus said, “We’re excited to welcome Officer Mikel VanDevender as our school resource officer. His presence ensures not only safety, it builds trust and a stronger connection between our schools and community.”

VanDevender and his family live in South Whitley.