Keaira McKnight began working as a security guard at South High in January, and she is someone a lot of students see every day. At 22 years old, she brings a young energy to the school and tries to connect with students in a real way.
Before coming to South, she worked at the Douglas County Correctional Center for about a year and also worked at Amazon for two years. She said those jobs helped her learn how to deal with different kinds of people and situations. When asked why she chose South, she said, “I felt like I could make a change here.” She understands what some students go through with family problems and wants to be someone they can trust and talk to.
The process to become a security guard was not easy. She had to have a background check performed and go through two interviews, one with deans and security and another with the principal. She said she was super nervous but pushed through it.
One thing that stands out about McKnight is how she treats students. She said she treats them like people and young adults, not just kids. She tries to listen and understand their point of view instead of just telling them what to do.
On a normal day, she is very interactive with students. She said she makes sure they feel seen and knows she is there. McKnight said she comes in with good energy and keeps a routine to stay positive no matter what happens.
In her free time, McKnight said she enjoys spending time with her family, including her daughter, her two dogs and her partner.
Her message to students is simple but real.
“No matter how hard things get at home or school, just be you and keep going,” she said. “Once you start something, finish it.”
