With a population of about 600 students, there is always a need for security at Bear River, and Campus Security Guard Ralph Lewis makes safety his No. 1 priority. 

Formerly of Placer High School, Mr. Lewis has been at Bear River since the 2017-18 school year as head of Campus Security. He replaced Sylvia Ramirez, who retired, and he has been making his impact ever since. During his day, which starts at 8 a.m. and goes until about 4:30 p.m., Mr. Lewis works to keep the entire campus safe.

“Ralph keeps the Bear River campus safe for students and staff and assists school administration in enforcing the rules of the school,” said Principal Christopher Roberts.   

Mr. Lewis also works with the school resource officer, the on-campus representative of the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office, in relation to his role as campus security. 

“In cooperation with our school [interim] resource officer, [Kristin Morgan], Ralph monitors the school during the school day,” said Principal Roberts. “[They] ensure [the] safety and well-being of all on campus.”

Mr. Lewis expressed what he does outside of his job as campus security.

“I’m [a] husband of 25 years, father of three, own two dogs, one cat; I am a coach, trainer, actor, writer, dancer, choreographer, animal lover, love magic comedy,” said Mr. Lewis. “I’ve seen most every sports movies. I have lived in New York, Colorado, California, New Hampshire, [and] Maine.”

Vice-Principal Cathy Peterson talked about his duties outside of the school day.

“Ralph has a wealth of experience,” said Ms. Peterson. “He has [also] coached basketball at the college level as well as rec. leagues and high school.”

Within Mr. Lewis’ day, he enjoys talking to students and staff and wishes all the best for the Bruin family.

“I want [the staff and students] to be successful,” Mr. Lewis said. 

During his schedule, his duties consist of checking up on students in class and scanning the hallways. Mr. Lewis also ensures that Bruins that ride the bus, board safely.  

“He does everything he can to keep everyone on campus safe,” said Ms. Peterson.

As Campus Security, Mr. Lewis has to make tough decisions for the safety of students and staff. 

“His [does] a thankless job that often places him in a position of having to make difficult decisions,” said Ms. Peterson. ‘[Sometimes it’s] not always welcomed by some constituents. That being said, he always wants students to live up to their full potential.” 

According to Mr. Roberts, the students at Bear River don’t often get to see the other side of Mr. Lewis.

“Aside from Ralph’s campus supervisor duties, Ralph consistently goes above and beyond to reach out to students to make sure they feel connected,” said Mr. Roberts. “Ralph always has the best intentions when serving the students and staff at Bear River High School.”

Ms. Peterson had similar sentiments to Mr. Roberts. 

“Ralph is extremely loyal and has high expectations, and is a man of integrity,” she said.