As more schools bring police officers back to classrooms, parents remain divided | CBC News

"When her school board ended its School Police Liaison Officer (SPLO) program two years ago, the administrator in Saanich, B.C., could still access police in emergencies, but felt she'd lost a valuable connection. She'd previously teamed with SPLOs to advise and counsel students recruited into gang activity a major concern in her area. With their help, combined with family and community support, she says they pulled some teens out of those situations."

"Less than a decade ago, schools in many Canadian communities began dialing back programs stationing police officers in their hallways. In some schools, the move followed reports that these programs caused some students to feel uncomfortable and even intimidated. Elsewhere, programs ended from lack of funding or resources. Now, amid reports of increased violence in schools, these programs are returning or being contemplated anew a shift being celebrated in some corners and sparking outcry in others."

"Whether officers visit on sports days, give safety presentations or discussing safety tips more casually in the hall or on the playground, building relationships is the goal, Chief Const. Dean Duthie of the Saanich Police Department told CBC's On The Island just ahead of the school year. The programs allow police to get to know students better and vice versa, "because it's all about human relationships and connection that builds trust and confidence," he said."

Programs placing police in schools were reduced in many Canadian communities less than a decade ago after reports that some students felt uncomfortable or intimidated, and because of funding shortfalls. Some administrators lost valued relationships with officers who previously advised and counseled youth involved in gang recruitment, and saw challenges when accessing police without those connections. Rising reports of violence in schools have prompted plans to restore or reconsider such programs, generating support from some and outcry from others. Saanich officials emphasize that officers will focus on relationship-building through presentations, casual interactions and presence at school events.

Read at www.cbc.ca