August 25, 2023
Recent state legislation has created concerns by law enforcement regarding a School Resource Officers’ (SRO) ability to intervene in limited circumstances in Minnesota’s public schools. As a result, some local law enforcement agencies have suspended their existing SRO agreements with the school district and others have raised their concern on the impact that the legislation will have on the future role of SROs in our schools.
Regardless of the independent position of each law enforcement agency, all of our partners have assured the District that they remain committed to providing direct support to schools and school events as this matter is resolved. In the short-term, officers will maintain relationships and support of our campuses, in addition to supporting major school events, such as football games at Andover, Anoka, Blaine, Champlin Park, and Coon Rapids.
Anoka-Hennepin has a strong history of partnership with six law enforcement agencies on a school safety program that includes a total of twelve SRO’s, one at each traditional high school and middle school in the district and the River Trail Learning Center at L.O. Jacob.
District leaders and school officials remain in constant collaboration with law enforcement partners. The intention of the school district is to continue these strong partnerships as the legislative interpretations are worked out.
Thank you for the opportunity to address this important issue which emerged quickly, drew widespread media attention, and continues to develop. The district will share updates as additional information is available.
