Jacobs Secures $40,000 to Enhance School Safety in Orchard Park

(Orchard Park, NY) – New York State Senator Chris Jacobs (60^th SD) announced that he has secured an allocation of $40,000 in state funds to support the placement of a new School Resource Officer in the Orchard Park Central School District.

“We have an obligation to provide our schools with the tools they need to maintain a safe and secure learning environment,” said Senator Jacobs.  “Parents can take comfort knowing that the presence of a School Resource Officer who is a professionally trained law enforcement official is an extremely effective way to ensure the safety of their children.” 

In addition to providing security, School Resources Officers build a relationship with the school community by working with administrators, staff, students and parents to help identify safety issues, train personnel and resolve conflicts before they become more serious.  Orchard Park Schools Superintendent Matthew McGarrity said he believes the new School Resource Officer will greatly enhance safety protocols already in place in the district.

"For many years, the Orchard Park School District has had a very positive rapport with the Orchard Park Police Department,” said Superintendent McGarrity.  “This partnership is evident throughout the district, and the resource officer position will build on that relationship, while increasing the safety and security for our students and staff.  The Orchard Park community is very fortunate to have a police force that is professional and proactive, and one that is a true partner with the school district.”

The school district is working with the Town of Orchard Park Police Department and Chief Mark Pacholec to identify a member of the department for this assignment.

“The Orchard Park Police Department is committed to ensuring the safety of all students, staff and visitors in our District’s buildings, and we know that the presence of a trained, armed, uniformed police officer is an integral part of doing so,” said Chief Pacholec.  “This also enables us to have an officer who can mentor our young adults and develop open lines of communication to help resolve issues before they become problems. Thanks to the generosity of Senator Jacobs, we are now able to provide this important resource to our District’s families.”