Former Saugerties SRO appeals to board for explanation and to finish his final year

A former school resource officer told the Saugerties Central School District board on July 8 that he was dismissed without clear disciplinary paperwork and asked trustees to reconsider.

"The reason I am here is because I am actually calling this, you know, I didn't prepare a speech because I think everything, should come read directly from me from the heart," Travis Winchell said in public comment. He told trustees he began work in September 2018, said he had worked closely with students and families throughout the years and described the decision to remove him as "puzzling."

Winchell said he had contacted board members seeking an executive-session hearing and did not receive a response. He said he had not received a disciplinary letter and that the only private conversation about his removal was with the chief and a district administrator, whom he said told him it was the administrator's decision. "I have yet to get a clear answer from anybody," he said.

He described efforts during the COVID period, including delivering groceries and hygiene supplies to students, and said he spent his own money supporting families. "I have spent thousands of dollars on my students," Winchell said. He asked the board to "reconsider and let me finish out my year here that I have left."

What the board said: during public comment the chair acknowledged receipt of Winchell's message that he had sought an executive-session appearance but had been advised to deliver remarks during the public-comment period. Trustees did not take any personnel action on Winchell’s remarks during the meeting; personnel matters were later moved into executive session.

The board did not release further details about the personnel matter at the public meeting.