Police chief outlines school‑resource‑officer coverage, training and a grid system for emergencies

The police chief described the district's school resource officer (SRO) program and training model at the meeting, saying the program includes five full-time SROs, a sergeant and four detectives assigned to secondary schools and that officers teach classes, mentor students and handle emergencies.

The chief said the department follows the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) model and has codified an internal grid mapping system — analogous to a Battleship grid — so officers can quickly locate rooms during an incident. He said the approach was developed locally and subsequently codified in state law.

When asked about training and coordination with neighboring SROs, the chief said all officers attend NASRO training offered each June and that SRO network communications and joint summer trainings continue across jurisdictions. The chief also noted the department's 2024 recognition from the national association as an example of program quality.

The chief said SROs work regular 40-hour weeks, are based in the secondary schools from roughly 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., and provide coverage for elementary schools as assignments require. He invited further discussion on local expectations and said the department will adapt training and staffing as the district’s structures evolve.