EDUCATION

A 2019 study1 concluded that for every dollar invested in an SRO program, a minimum of $11.13 of social and economic value is created. Benefits include:

• Prevention or minimization of property damage in the school and surrounding areas. • Prevention of student injuries and even death due to violence, drug overdoses, etc. • Reduction of the need for schools to call 9-1-1. • Reduction of the likelihood a student will get a criminal record. • Increase in the likelihood that students (particularly those with mental health issues) will get the help they need from social service and health care systems. • Increase in feelings of safety among students and staff.

1 Routledge 2019

Meet Jarrell ISD’S New SRO

by Cassidie Cox photos courtesy JISD As Jarrell grows, so does its need for safety, and few places deserve more attention than our schools. Over the summer, Jarrell ISD partnered with the city to provide an additional school resource officer who will help provide a safe learning environment and foster positive relationships with students at all JISD schools.

Billy Madden, the Safety and DAEP1 Administrator for Jarrell ISD, explains, “Our second SRO is a measure taken by leadership due to the continued need for safety in the district. [The new SRO] will be a part of our first line of defense at the schools.” Officer Romero will be joining veteran SRO Estrada in developing strategies to resolve problems that affect the children, protecting all students and personnel, and helping students reach their fullest potential.

Having already built a reputation for himself at many school events and activities, Officer Romero was the first choice for many of those involved in the decision. Nick Spinetto, Director of Communications at Jarrell ISD, says Officer Romero’s clear passion for working with the children and schools was one of the many reasons he was a standout. “He came out to the elementary schools on fire trucks,” Mr. Spinetto says. “He also developed relationships with the faculty and staff during training sessions—it’s clear he already has a heart for the district.”

THE HEART OF THE JOB

It is a foregone conclusion that relationship building is important in an SRO job. “At times our police departments get a bad rap,” Madden says, “and there’s a struggle between students and officers. I’m certain [Officer Romero] will build good relationships with them, as both a friend and a protector.”

Officer Romero’s primary duty station is Jarrell Middle School but his assignment is flexible, which means he is free to serve at all the district schools as needed. He and Officer Estrada— stationed at the high school—will continue to work handin-hand with the Jarrell Police Department during drills and training. As well, having a second SRO is just part of several new safety measures, including active shooter training, which took place earlier this summer in collaboration with the police and fire departments (see page 10).

“Unfortunately, additional safety is on everyone’s minds now with regard to education,” Madden says. “But this is all about preparedness. Parents should understand that these changes are about giving them peace of mind and adding all reasonable safety measures.”

1 Disciplinary Alternative Education Programs