Fabens ISD hears SRO presentation as administrators weigh program reductions amid budget strain

At its Oct. 15 meeting, the Fabens Independent School District heard an El Paso County Sheriff's Office overview of the district's school resource officer (SRO) program and discussed whether to reduce the program as administrators grapple with a budget shortfall.

Sergeant Acuna described SRO duties beyond law enforcement, saying, "They're mentors. They're called upon [as] the counselors," and that officers help run summer credit‑recovery programs and build student rapport. He highlighted a recent incident in which an SRO was flagged to a student experiencing a mental‑health crisis who reportedly had access to a firearm: "Within 3 minutes of the school resource officer being flagged out, they identified the student and they took him into custody," Acuna said, adding that deputies later located and surrendered a firearm to the sheriff's office and referred the student for crisis services.

The presentation prompted trustees to ask how many SROs are stationed in the district and what services might be lost if the program is dissolved. Sergeant Acuna said there is typically one SRO assigned per campus but noted flexibility in assignments; administrators confirmed the district currently has four SROs under a five‑year contract signed about three years ago and said that while the officers are "outstanding," the district is reviewing the cost of the program.

An administration representative told the board the district is "in a critical stage" financially and is exploring every program for potential savings, including whether to reduce SRO coverage or engage outside vendors. The administration said no decision has been made and that it will meet with the sheriff's office and the SRO sergeant to identify options, including applying for security grants that may be available in December.

Trustees and the sergeant also discussed daily SRO routines, visibility during drop‑off and pickup, traffic safety coordination with County Roads and Bridges, and the specialized training officers receive for school settings. Sergeant Acuna recommended preserving SROs on campuses with the greatest need if reductions are required, calling the program a partnership intended to "provide a safe and secure feeling" for students and families.

The board did not take formal action on the SRO program during the meeting. Administration said it will return with options for board consideration after further discussions with the sheriff's office and follow‑up about grant opportunities.