I’m writing to encourage the Portland public school system to reinstall school resource officers (SROs) in our city’s schools. SROs are valuable members of our school communities who can offer security and general assistance in many areas that help schools run smoothly.

The issues facing our student population can’t be ignored: Students being grabbed while walking to school; a complete stranger entering and wandering around a middle school; and a man exposing himself to students who are using outdoor space near their building during school hours. These are just a handful of the more newsworthy things that have occurred at my own kids’ schools in Portland this past year. 

Why are some people so opposed to this program? Do they enjoy the thrill of being less prepared for an emergency? Do they think an officer’s presence is triggering or causes anxiety for some students? I’d argue the opposite. An SRO could be the bridge that allows students to see an officer as someone who can protect, serve and help them — not someone they need to run away from.

Some people argue that having SROs in schools leads to more discipline issues. I’d counter that having an extra set of eyes watching for infractions simply results in more rule breakers being caught. That’s a good thing.

I work in a local district that has SROs in its buildings and I’m thankful for them every day. I wish my kids had that security at their own schools here in Portland.

Nate Guerin
Portland