In a significant move to enhance school safety, the Hobbs Municipal Schools Board approved a joint agreement with the City of Hobbs and Lee County to provide School Resource Officers (SROs) on campuses. This decision, made during the board meeting on September 17, 2025, marks a collaborative effort among local law enforcement agencies to ensure a secure environment for students and staff.

The agreement formalizes the roles and responsibilities of the SROs, who will be present throughout the school day. The board highlighted the importance of this initiative, especially in light of recent national concerns regarding school safety. The district has committed to increasing its funding for SROs from $12,000 to $30,000, which will also cover additional coverage for after-school events.

Board members expressed their appreciation for the collaborative spirit demonstrated by the Hobbs Police Department and the Lee County Sheriff's Office. This partnership is notable as it combines resources from multiple agencies, a rarity in school safety agreements, which typically involve only one law enforcement entity.

In addition to the SRO agreement, discussions during the meeting touched on the ongoing challenges of teacher recruitment. The district is currently employing close to 600 certified staff, with efforts underway to improve recruitment strategies. A presentation on these initiatives is expected in the coming month, focusing on developing local talent through a "grow your own" program.

The board's commitment to safety and education reflects a proactive approach to addressing community concerns. As the district moves forward with these initiatives, residents can expect continued efforts to enhance both the safety and quality of education in Hobbs.