Norman Public Schools Superintendent Nick Migliorino and Professional Educators of Norman President Adrienne Hall wrote there’s an ongoing need for school resource officers in elementary schools and asked families and educators for support in a letter to educators and families on Friday.
On Tuesday, Norman City Council voted to postpone a vote appropriating $900,995 from the general fund balance for the expansion of the school resource officer program. Council also considered plans to hold a meeting with city and county leaders to discuss its decision.
In response, Migliorino and Hall wrote while they support the dialogue and are happy to answer questions from council members, they hope progress will not be stalled as the district wants to have at least one school resource officer at all NPS sites by January.
“If we insist on having officers at our secondary schools, board meetings, and city council meetings for adults, why would we not also insist on providing the same protection for our elementary schools?” Migliorino and Hall asked in the letter.
In 2014, the city voted to authorize the continuation of the Public Safety Sales Tax, which would provide 13 school resource officer positions in Norman Public Schools.
According to the Tuesday city council agenda, nine of the 13 positions were filled. The resolution would provide funding for the remaining four positions which are proposed to be deployed to Norman Public elementary schools.
During the Tuesday city council meeting, Mayor Larry Heikkila and Ward 1 Councilmember Austin Ball were the only council members who voted against the postponement.
Ball said school resource officers ensure safety in schools during the meeting.
Ward 2 Councilmember Lauren Schueler said she believes postponement is the right move, questioning why it's the city's responsibility to fund the program.
In the letter, Migliorino and Hall asked that families and educators give feedback about the postponement, adding that they’re worried a potential delay in adding school resource officers to elementary schools could change the safety measures in place at the district’s school sites.
“Together, we believe we can convey the message that the safety of our children truly is a top priority for not only our school district but also our entire community. Thank you for your understanding, support, and dedication to the safety of our students and staff,” Migliorino and Hall wrote. “Thank you for any outreach and insight you may provide to our community leaders as we work to move forward positively and productively toward safe and nurturing outcomes for ALL.”
This story was edited by Peggy Dodd.
