Superintendent says district expects to hire municipal school resource officer in coming weeks

Superintendent Dr. Willett told the Tolland Board of Education on Oct. 22 that the district expects to hire a municipal school resource officer and hopes to place a permanent SRO between November and December, pending a meeting with town police leadership and confirmation of funding.

"I think we'll be able to place an SRO in the next few weeks," Dr. Willett said during the superintendent's report, adding that the district plans to meet with Mr. Foley and Troop C leadership to clarify resources and the posting process. Dr. Willett said the town is likely to use a municipal officer structure: a police officer paid by the town, assigned to schools during the 10-month school year, armed and with full police powers, and not a Connecticut state trooper on the state payroll.

Board members asked whether there would be a gap in coverage during the transition. Dr. Willett said no gap was expected and noted Trooper Shepherd currently covers schools but that short-term shift coverage may occur during personnel transitions.

Dr. Willett said the district will advertise the position once the meeting with local law enforcement confirms funding and scheduling and expects Troop C assistance during the transition. No formal motion or vote occurred on the SRO topic during the meeting.