The St. Anthony’s Catholic Elementary’s Parent Council took to social media to advice of the school resource officer being at risk of being eliminated.
In the post to Facebook they say that Kincardine is holding a special meeting on Monday, February 27th to discuss proposed budget cuts for the 2023 budget.
They say there is a recommendation to eliminate funding for the School Resource Officer position.
The SRO is an OPP Officer assigned to Kincardine schools. It is not only accessible to students who have concerns or problems such as mental health issues, drugs, bullying and domestic violence but they also provide education and awareness to all of the school’s students about staying safe, being aware of dangers and risks, and how to seek help.
The Council says that in 2022 the SRO gave 46 presentations across the Municipality on a range of safety topics tailed to various age groups. They also responded to nearly 250 calls for service across the schools.
They say having a dedicated officer that supports the schools helps to build positive and trusting relationships between children and the police services.
They urge their parent community to:
- Write an email urging Kincardine Council to reconsider elimiated the funding before the Feb. 27th meeting at council@kincardine.ca or send them directly to the councillors.
- Share the story so other parents and community members are aware.