I believe the reliance on SROs gives a false sense of security. No one human being can provide safety to an entire school; not even 2 or 3 SROs can do it alone. I am not for or against SROs. There must be a level of vigilance on the part of everyone in the schools. Efforts must be made to better prepare and train teachers, administrators, and support staff to engage with young people more effectively in order to de-escalate situations that have the potential to go down the wrong path. There is also a need to work with students to help them monitor and manage their conduct in the schools. This is where classroom efforts to incorporate social-emotional learning practices can pay dividends.

If there are to be SROs in schools they must be incorporated as part of the entire school community where they can build healthy relationships with the students. School communities must take safety and security seriously and not expect others to carry that responsibility in isolation. I will examine the data and evidence in Howard County Schools before deciding on the use of SROs in schools.

I will rely on facts and data. My decisions will be based on what is best for school communities, centering the welfare of children. I will not rely on emotions but will be open in making decisions based on the impact and effect of SROs in our schools.