During a recent government meeting, the City of Mount Dora's council discussed the approval of an agreement with the Lake County School Board to enhance the School Resource Officer (SRO) program. Chief Gibbs presented the program, emphasizing its historical significance and effectiveness in maintaining school safety.

The SRO program, which dates back to the 1950s, has evolved significantly, particularly following the Violent Crime and Law Enforcement Reduction Act of 1994, which provided funding for such initiatives. Chief Gibbs highlighted findings from a 2018 Federal Commission on School Safety report, which indicated that trained SROs can establish trust with students, potentially preventing school shootings. Additionally, a 2019 Department of Justice report noted that SROs not only respond to incidents but also mentor students and foster a safe school environment.

In Florida, state law mandates that public and charter schools implement safety measures, including SRO programs. The Lake County School Board primarily utilizes the SRO program to comply with these regulations. Mount Dora has three schools under its jurisdiction, and the council discussed the necessity of having one SRO for every 1,000 students, leading to the recommendation of four officers for the local schools.

The financial implications of the program were also addressed. The estimated total cost for the four SROs is approximately $339,658, with the Lake County School Board agreeing to reimburse $242,986, leaving the city responsible for about $96,672. This funding structure represents a significant commitment from the school board, covering roughly 70% of the costs.

Council members expressed strong support for the program, citing its positive impact on student-police relationships and the importance of having adequately trained officers in schools. Chief Gibbs confirmed that SROs undergo specialized training, including crisis intervention and child psychology, to effectively address issues such as bullying and emotional distress among students.

The council is expected to finalize the agreement, reinforcing the city's commitment to enhancing safety and support within its schools.