An overview of the role of resource officers in Winn Parish schools, as requested by the school board, was detailed by Sheriff Josh McAllister when he met with the board’s committee session September 30.

“Their main goal is to promote safety and prevent crime,” he began.  This could include making an arrest when criminal activity is involved.  It also means being a positive role model for students, working with guidance counselors to assist in resolving conflicts, addressing safety concerns in the schools and coordinating any emergency response.

He went on to say that the school resource officer provides a visible presence to deter trespassers and deter criminal activity on the school grounds.  In this context, officers work with the school system to create a safe environment, monitor security cameras together with school personnel and patrol the school grounds, parking lots and buildings for security checks.

Finally he noted that the officers do not create policy nor do they interfere with existing school policy.  “The school resource officer is there to prevent crime and take action when criminal activity occurs,” he emphasized.  “Discipline falls under school policy unless a criminal act occurs.”

Resource officers will also work to provide security at special events such as ballgames, conferences and other extra activities held at the schools.

There is a resource officer in each of the schools, although Winnfield Middle School and Winfield High School, with their adjoining campuses, share an officer.  A resource officer must have three years of service as a law enforcement officer, 40 hours of certified training, be commissioned as a law enforcement officer and be knowledgeable of the laws.  He also mentioned their having the right attitude for a “good fit” at a school.

The service is not cheap.  McAllister estimated that the annual cost to the Winn Parish Sheriff’s Office is around $350,000, figuring regular duties plus special events coverage and travel.  “We’re playing tax so we don’t have to pay,” said President Joe Lynn Browning.

Questions at the presentation’s conclusion led to board discussion with the sheriff in which there was no consensus.  At the heart of the question was a recent incident where students fighting at WSHS were arrested.  Several members argued that that police action seemed heavy-handed.  Others held that, for overall school safety, police action is necessary.  Most listened quietly as the debate unfolded.

The sheriff noted that his officers will respond appropriately to criminal acts.  As to kids fighting on the playground, he told the board “that’s your call.”