As some of you may know, we are working through some issues with the Chikaming Township Police Department on our School Resource Officer (SRO) contract. 

The previous contract with Chikaming Police Department for an SRO was not renewed for two main reasons:

• Human Resource allocation.  Our organizations did not think the current situation was best for either organization.  The workforce shortage is a very real issue for both law enforcement and education.

• The roles and responsibilities are complicated.  Schools operate by a set of laws, rules, and policies.  Police departments operate by a different set of laws, work rules and contracts. 

I am grateful to report that our Board of Education is very committed to providing a full-time SRO for the 26-27 school year and has asked me to meet with Chikaming Township Police officials to work on a new agreement, which they are also very willing to do.

In addition, we will be convening a School Safety Committee, including law enforcement personnel to update our Crisis Management Plan to ensure it is in line with the new state laws and county processes, look at our behavioral/mental health supports we are providing our students and review our facilities with a focus on safety.  Recommendations will be made to our Board.

In recent years, we have increased safety at our building entrances and greatly enhanced our security camera system.  We have increased our staff training in identifying potential problems early and de-escalation techniques.  Last but not least, we are continuing to improve our school culture by teaching and demonstrating the kindness and respect we expect from each other, which makes RV a better and safer place for everyone.  Schools are safer and more productive when there is effective communication and positive relationships, so our work in those areas will continue based on our core values of Integrity, Respect, Responsibility, Kindness, Innovation and Determination.

I apologize for not informing parents/families earlier of this situation and am confident we will emerge an even more positive and safer school for our kids, educators, and families.