A Northern Lehigh School District police officer has received the Lehigh Valley Emergency Services Police Officer of the Year Award.

“Last month officer (Mark) Nicosia received an award recognizing his unwavering dedication to our students, employees and visitors,” Superintendent Matthew J. Link said. “While he primarily serves at the high school, he’s always willing to lend a hand helping wherever needed throughout the school district.”

The award was presented at the Lehigh Valley Emergency Responders Conference held at DeSales University.

“(High school Principal Lori) Bali, Chief (David) Jones and I were honored to attend the ceremony in support of his outstanding accomplishment,” Link said. “He was nominated for this award by one of our high school teachers (Gabryella Wilder), and notably he’s the first school police officer to ever receive this distinction.”

Link noted that in addition to his law enforcement responsibilities, Nicosia also serves as this year’s Senior Class adviser.

Nicosia was humbled by the acknowledgment.

“I couldn’t have got it without you guys as well,” Nicosia said. “It’s a community, we all do it, and without everyone’s support, and everyone’s help, I can’t do my job.”

Nicosia gave an example.

“Dr. Bali kind of gives me the reigns sometimes when we’re dealing with something and I might want to handle it a different way,” Nicosia said. “It’s worked out pretty well for us, the kids respond pretty well.”

Nicosia then heaped praise on outgoing senior student representative to the board Olivia Schaeffer, whom he said he’s had the past four years as one of his class advisers.

“Nothing for our class would function without Olivia,” Nicosia said. “She keeps me in line, she keeps me focused.”

Link once again congratulated Nicosia on his achievement.

“Thank you,” Link said. “We’re fortunate to have you here as part of our school community, and you do a wonderful job for our students.”