May 15

Written by: Bret Rachlin
5/15/2009 11:14 AM

Earlier this week I came across the fall 2008 NASSLEO (National Association of School Safety and Law Enforcement Officers) newsletter, which included a letter to then President-elect Obama. As an organization committed “to bring together people that are joined in a common effort to make our schools safe for our students and staff,” NASSLEO’s letter made three recommendations that are worth sharing.

First, the president should listen to Vice President Joe Biden when it comes to school security. NASSLEO has worked with Mr. Biden’s staff for several years, communicating the importance of school safety issues. Mr. Biden has supported many of NASSLEO’s initiatives and it’s critical for those initiatives to continue to receive funding.

Second, continue funding the Community Oriented Policing Secure our Schools program, as NASSLEO funded much of its training, resources and officers from this funding.

Third, recognize the value of the Office of Safe and Drug Free Schools. With so few of the 17,000 U.S. school districts having the necessary staff to implement security programs, this agency assists the others with advice and leadership to help them understand the increasing complexity of their security issues.

Overall, NASSLEO acknowledges that schools continue to do the best they can with limited resources. “Doing more with less does not mean we can do everything with nothing, try as we may.” Ultimately, schools continue to face greater security challenges, and it’s critical that both federal and local government support organizations, such as NASSLEO, with funding and resources, so schools can consistently provide safe learning environments.

Does your school district work with organizations like NASSLEO?

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