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Board approves new deputy chief of school police job description to stabilize leadership
Summary
The board approved a new job description for a deputy chief of school police to strengthen internal affairs and succession planning for the district school police department; trustees said restructuring will produce cost savings and increased continuity.
The Sarasota County School Board voted to approve a new job description for a deputy chief of the school police department on Sept. 16, a measure district leaders said will strengthen internal affairs investigations, create a clearer succession pathway and produce command‑level cost savings.
Superintendent Connor presented the item, saying the position is intended to reduce turnover at the chief level, provide a continuity of command and centralize investigative responsibilities. “By establishing this position, it's gonna create stability, continuity of command, and a clear pathway for future leadership,” he said.
Board members voiced support for the restructuring and for Chief Enos — who was referenced in board remarks as a national‑level expert the district hopes to retain — while stressing the district must avoid adding administrative bloat. School Board Member Bridget Ziegler said she was initially cautious but supported the position after discussion about turnover and the unique needs of a school police department; School Board Member Karen Rose also supported the item and praised Chief Enos’s relationships with local law enforcement.
The motion to approve the new job description passed by voice vote.
Board action
- 11.13: Approve new deputy chief of police job description. Outcome: approved (voice vote, unanimous as recorded).
Next steps
District staff said they will implement the revised command structure, review command‑level positions for cost savings and update the board on implementation.
