[Springtown, Texas – October 13, 2023] – Springtown Independent School District (SISD) is excited to announce The Springtown ISD Board of Trustees approved a new contract with the City of Springtown aimed at strengthening the already stringent safety and security of our students and faculty. As stated in the contract, the City has committed to providing up to six dedicated School Resource Officers (SROs) to ensure a uniformed police presence on each SISD campus, doubling the number of officers currently dedicated to school safety and security.
The SISD-City of Springtown contract solidifies the commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety within our school district. These trained and dedicated School Resource Officers will not only contribute to a secure learning environment but also foster positive relationships between law enforcement and the student body. In addition to being certified peace officers, School Resource Officers (SROs) are required to complete additional training related to school safety and security and juvenile law enforcement. The City and SISD will continue routine response training to ensure cohesive preparedness for any incident that may occur.
Under the terms of the agreement, SROs will be stationed at each SISD campus, ensuring a constant and reliable presence. Their primary objectives include improving the safety of students and faculty and providing essential campus security.
Mr. Shane Strickland, Superintendent of Springtown Independent School District, shared his excitement for this agreement, stating, "The safety and well-being of our students and staff are our highest priority. We are thrilled to partner with the City of Springtown to provide a safer and more secure learning environment for our school community."
Mr. Strickland also wanted to note that Micheal Chavez, Executive Director of Operations for Springtown Independent School District, played a huge role in setting up this agreement. Mr. Strickland stated, “Mr. Chavez’s dedication to SISD and the genuine concern we all share for the safety and security of the staff and students was instrumental in making this agreement a reality.”
Mayor Greg Hood of the City of Springtown echoed this sentiment, saying, "The City of Springtown is proud to stand with Springtown Independent School District in ensuring the safety of our most precious resource - our children. We are committed to working hand in hand to provide a safer educational space for all."
This agreement will also facilitate the development of a complete SRO division within the Springtown Police Department, directly overseen by Sgt. Katy Wacasey. Sgt. Wacasey will continue to play a vital role in the administration of the police department in partnership with City Administrator/Director of Public Safety David Miller and Deputy Chief of Police Jamie Oliver. In addition to the dedicated SRO division, school safety and security will continue to be supported by the entire department. In the event of any incident that requires a significant law enforcement presence, not only will the schools be protected by the SROs, but all other on-duty law enforcement personnel will be able to respond to ensure the safety of all campuses.
This partnership exemplifies the shared dedication of the school district and the city to prioritize the security and peace of mind of all Springtown residents. It reflects a significant step forward in the ongoing mission to ensure the highest quality education in the safest possible environment.