Board questions SRO staffing and school‑climate supports as police department restructures

Board members raised safety and climate concerns at the Sept. 4 meeting, focusing on school resource officer (SRO) coverage and alternatives while the police department undergoes staffing changes. Dr. Solon said the district currently has Officer Mike Khan serving as an SRO and praised local officers’ partnership: “Officer Mike Khan is awesome, great SRO,” he said. Board members said they wanted clarity about the police department’s staffing plan and whether that will support a permanent SRO at each building. Several trustees asked whether the chief intended to fill a second SRO position at Dodd and whether rotating or partial coverage will continue while the department rebuilds patrol staffing. Dr. Solon agreed to follow up with Acting Chief Fred Jordan to confirm timing and staffing expectations and to report back to the board. Members also asked whether the district should explore or fund a school‑climate specialist (a district staffer to lead restorative practices, response to behavior and climate work) as an alternative or complement to SRO coverage. Dr. Solon said that is a discussion the district can have during the budget cycle and that staff would examine the idea in light of available data and current resources. Board and administrators reiterated that emergency response and police partnerships are important but noted the department has recruitment constraints; board members requested updates on a timetable for SRO staffing and on any interim measures to bolster building climate and safety.