Is Private Security Coming To YOUR Kid’s Arizona School?

There may not be a more formative moment in American policy than the aftermath of the Columbine shooting. The horrific tragedy reminded us that nothing, even our children, were sacred, and changes began coming immediately.

It started with the implementation of SROs (school resource officers) to add a layer of protection, but as the past few years have shown us, it's still not enough. So what's Arizona's answer?

Retired Officers Get New Life

A new bill is currently being proposed by the Arizona Department of Education that would overhaul security in all Arizona schools by bringing in retired police officers as SROs.

Officers interested would have to complete a one-week training course to ensure they're the right fit for the job. This not only ups security at schools that desperately need it, but also allows for active officers working as SROs to return to active duty.

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Some Parents Aren't Happy

While this bill has overwhelming support, it also has its naysayers. Former resource Officers have voiced their pas negative experiences with the program, especially with other officers they say have made comments that could be harmful to students.

While not totally opposed, many of these officers are hoping for a more comprehensive training course to ensure only the best of the best are protecting our children. The bill would likely take effect this July, giving schools ample time to prep for the changes before the new school year begins.

The Arizona Department of Education believes that this will be beneficial both to the schools and communities in areas where this will take place, making every resident feel safer and more at ease with extra security at every step.

[AZ Big Media]