RPD will provide officers for Richmond schools

Richmond Community Schools has approved Richmond Police Department taking on school security responsibilities. 

RCS had created and operated its own police department for nearly a year and a half, but during its Jan. 22 meeting, RCS board members signed a new memorandum of understanding with RPD. Rick Thalls, who had served as Richmond Community Schools Police Department chief, resigned late last year.  

The vote was 6-1, with John Weber voting no. Weber didn’t say what led to his nay vote. 

RPD will provide a minimum of four full-time school resource officers to RCS buildings for 18 months. RCS will pay RPD $400,000 per year.

The expanded SRO program took effect Jan. 22 with immediate implementation across all RCS schools, according to a news release.

Board member Nicole Stults said students’ safety is paramount. She thanked those involved for the effort and time required for the collaboration. 

“It’s taken a lot, and I’m hopeful this partnership will effectively serve our student body in years to come …” Stults said.

The agreement emphasizes safety and fostering positive relationships between students and law enforcement, the release said, with RPD Chief Kyle Weatherly noting officers will serve not only as protectors but also mentors, role models and advocates for youth.

RPD’s initiatives to enhance safety and build relationships include:  

• Educational programs to help students better understand the role of law enforcement.
• SRO participation in school activities to strengthen bonds with students.
• Coordinated responses to security incidents on school grounds.
• Collaborative strategies to address issues like truancy and student safety.
• Traffic management during peak school hours to ensure safety around campuses.

“Today marks a significant step in uniting our city and our schools under one common goal: the safety and well-being of every child in Richmond,” said Mayor Ron Oler in the release. “As parents, neighbors, and community members, we want nothing more than for our schools to be sanctuaries of learning and growth. This partnership underscores our commitment to ensuring that our children have the safe, supportive environment they deserve.”

RCS Superintendent Curtis Wright said the district is grateful for unwavering support from city government and RPD as they work together “to create the safest possible environment for our children to learn and thrive,” the release said.

RCS’ board was to conduct a policy work session on Tuesday, Jan. 28. Its next public meeting will include a work session at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12, followed by business at 6:30 p.m.