By Nancy Whitney
Staff Writer
School districts everywhere work in conjunction with local police departments, securing facilities for young scholars. This fall, Garland ISD will introduce 13 new School Resource Officers to their campuses, including two for Sachse schools, bringing the total to 45.
Prior to the 2015-’16 school year, there were just three SRO’s were assigned to Sachse campuses—one serving Armstrong and Sewell elementary schools, one at Hudson Middle School and one at Sachse High School. In June, the school board approved two additional SRO’s.
The two new officers will serve as floaters and will assist at all schools during peak times. These officers will also cover for SRO’s who are ill or off-campus.
“School safety is one of the district’s top priorities,” said Assistant Superintendent of Student Services and Community Relations John Washington. “For example, one additional SRO presence at Sachse High School reduces the officer-to-student ratio from 1:1350 to 1:2700.”
Washington said the addition of SRO’s on campuses has a huge impact on students.
“As educators, we are responsible for creating an environment that is safe and conducive to learning,” he said. “More officers naturally translate to an increased safety presence, and our students know that.”
The new SRO’s will be solely funded through the school district, as was approved through the school board.
SRO’s undergo traditional officer training, and enhance their education through specialized courses that help them become more proficient in working with adolescents.
The 45 officers service campuses in Garland, Rowlett and Sachse.
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