Mohave Today

The Chandler City Council has recently approved agreements with three local school districts to provide school resource officers at public high schools and middle schools in Chandler. The agreements will be in effect until June 2026.

During the City Council's meeting on December 7th, the agreements were given the green light. These agreements will fund a total of 12 school resource officer positions across the districts. The Arizona Department of Education School Safety Program will cover the majority of the personnel costs for these positions, with any remaining costs being shared equally between the city and the school districts.

Nine of the officers will be dedicated to the Chandler Unified School District and will be assigned to various high schools and middle schools in the area. This includes Arizona College Prep, Basha, Chandler, and Hamilton High Schools, as well as Arizona College Prep Middle School and Andersen, Bogle, Santan, and Willis Junior High Schools.

Two officers will be assigned to the Kyrene School District, specifically Aprende and Pueblo Middle Schools. Additionally, one officer will be dedicated to Mesa Public Schools and assigned to Summit Academy.

School resource officers are sworn members of the Chandler Police Department who perform police duties and provide a law enforcement officer presence on school campuses. Their role is to assist administrators, teachers, and students with school safety, security, and law enforcement education.

The approval of these agreements highlights the commitment of the City Council to prioritize the safety and well-being of students and staff in Chandler schools. By having dedicated school resource officers, the city aims to create a secure environment that fosters learning and growth.

These agreements will be instrumental in ensuring that schools have the necessary support to address any potential safety concerns. The presence of school resource officers not only serves as a deterrent to potential threats but also allows for quick and effective response in the event of an emergency.

Mayor Kevin Hartke expressed his satisfaction with the approval of the agreements, stating, "The safety of our students and staff is of utmost importance. These agreements will provide a valuable resource to our schools and enhance the overall security of our community."

With the support of the Arizona Department of Education and the collaboration between the city and the school districts, Chandler is taking proactive steps to ensure the safety and well-being of its students. By investing in school resource officers, the city is demonstrating its commitment to creating a safe and secure learning environment.

As the agreements take effect, Chandler residents can be assured that their schools will have the necessary resources and support to maintain a safe and conducive learning environment for all students and staff.

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.chandleraz.gov/news-center/city-council-approves-school-resource-officer-agreements