As a concerned parent of a student attending River City High School, I am dismayed at the ongoing safety issues we are currently facing. Our children's campus life is marred by an array of issues such as dangerous incidents in the bathrooms, numerous fights, rampant drug-use, hate language and graffiti, widespread vandalism, and more. Despite the commendable efforts of the school staff, they have been unable to adequately manage these issues which persist in alarming quantities and regularity.

Our plea is simple. We are urging the City of West Sacramento and the Washington Unified School District to immediately fund a designated School Resource Officer Program. And require that at least one School Resource Officer be predominantly stationed at River City High School during regular school operating hours. Having an officer in school would  serve as a deterrent and they could also serve as mentor or guide for those involved in incidents- they would work collaboratively with students and staff (and parents/guardians) to attempt to prevent additional future incidents and implement improved safety measures that have proven results. 

Research indicates that schools with School Resource Officers report fewer incidents of serious violence and less weapon carrying in schools (National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO), 2018). Implementing a School Resource Officer program in our school system may very well curb harmful activity and promote a healthy educational environment. For this program to be successful, the NASRO'S has best practices for a School Resource Officer Program which covers four main areas-- including, administrative standards which define the role, careful selection of the officers, specialized training, and an 'interagency collaboration between the school district and law enforcement agencies.' The City of Elk Grove, County of Sacramento and Sac City, City of Vacaville and Fairfield, and City of Rocklin are a few of our surrounding areas which have established SRO programs.

The safety of our children should always be our number one priority. No parent/guardian should fear for their child's safety while they are trying to get an education. For the children, for their education, and for their future, support this initiative. Please sign this petition to implement a School Resource Officer Program at River City High School. Having an SRO on campus does not mean there will be zero incidents of violence.

Having an SRO on campus means that if or when incidents of violence happen, there is someone present to help prevent additional harm. An SRO will also deescalate conflicts, prevent potential threats, promote a safe learning environment, provide education on the harmful effects of drugs and alcohol, support students in crisis, and staff who need assistance. They can also build rapport and trust with students, parents/guardians, staff and foster positive relationships which is truly the foundation of Community policing and the betterment of the City as a whole. 

*Please, no need to donate any money to this petition.