First Black female officer in Martinsville becomes first SRO for preschool

MARTINSVILLE, Va. ( WFXR ) — One officer in the City of Martinsville is continuing to stamp her mark in history.

Retired Officer Coretha Gravely is the first Black woman to join the Martinsville Police Department . But now she is joining the Clearview Early Learning Center to serve as the school’s first-ever Resource Officer.

Officer Gravely began trailblazing the way from Black officers, especially women, in 1991. After serving on the force for 32 years, she retired from full-time duty in 2023 and is returning part-time to take on her new role.

“Officer Gravely is already a very familiar face at Clearview thanks to her extensive community involvement over the years,” said T.J. Slaughter, Martinsville City Public Schools ( MCPS ) Director of School Safety and Emergency Management. “She has participated in countless family events and other activities at Clearview and other schools in our district. We couldn’t be happier to have her on board, completing our team of district SROs.”

As an active member of the Martinsville community, Officer Gravely dedicated her career to connecting with residents and working to make the city a better and safer place.

The school district says as the new SRO, she will help create a secure environment for young students, faculty, and staff.

“We are thrilled to have Officer Gravely join the MCPS team at Clearview, protecting and mentoring our youngest learners!” said the MCPS.

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