*What could possibly go wrong? In what will likely be seen by some as a controversial move, the Chicago Board of Education made a unanimous decision on Thursday to terminate the school resource officer program and eliminate all Chicago police officers from public schools. As of this August, Chicago Police personnel will only be permitted to operate outside public school premises.
Chicago Board of Education member Michelle Morales emphasized, “Today’s resolution is fulfilling the board’s commitment to focus on alternative systems of safety.”
Previously, decisions regarding the presence of school resource officers within individual schools were made by school leaders. However, this practice will no longer persist.
Presently, only 39 high schools have police officers stationed on their campuses. Out of these, 23 schools have one school resource officer, while 16 schools have two, reports CBS News Chicago.
During a hearing held on Thursday before the vote, the school board listened to input from the public concerning the future of the program. The topic generated heated discussions surrounding whether the presence of officers enhanced or diminished students’ sense of safety.
Throughout the day, students, faculty members, and parents deliberated on this critical question. Despite the removal of police officers, Chicago Public Schools (CPS) still maintains over 1,400 security officers who are not affiliated with the Police Department.
Board of Education member Rudy Lozano Jr. affirmed, “We will continue to collaborate with CPD on its support for arrival and dismissal times, and responses to emergencies.”
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