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OCPS marks 10th anniversary of district police; board and community praise department
Summary
The board recognized the 10th anniversary of the Orange County Public Schools District Police, honoring past and present leaders and noting the department's expanded roles in safety, compliance and community engagement.
The Orange County School Board on Aug. 12 recognized the 10th anniversary of the OCPS District Police, honoring founding leaders and thanking current staff for a decade of service to students, staff and families.
Roberto Pacheco, chief operations officer, summarized the department's origins and growth: "What began as a small team with a big mission has grown into a trusted and essential part of our district corporations," he said, describing expanded units and community engagement. Chief Brian Holmes introduced veteran and pioneer members who helped build the unit.
Board members thanked the department for safety work, compliance assistance and community partnerships. Member Salamanca said the presence of district police made families and staff feel safer, noting the "relationship that you form and encourage across the entire district." Member Gallo and others praised individual officers for building rapport at schools; Member Felder and Member Douglas added personal observations about officers' roles as advisers and community supporters.
McMiller and other administrators also noted that district police handle compliance requirements from the state and support threat assessments, staff training and coordination with municipal law enforcement.
No formal actions or policy changes occurred during the recognition; the item was a ceremonial acknowledgment of the department's 10 years of service.
