Rockdale County schools enhance campus safety with more high school officers

ROCKDALE COUNTY, GA–In June, Rockdale County Public Schools (RCPS) announced its multi-layered approach to enhancing school safety for the 2022-23 school year. One of the measures includes the addition of School Resource Officers (SRO) at each of the traditional high schools. Two designated law enforcement SROs will be on campus every day, officials said on Monday (Aug. 22).

“Our Number One priority remains the safety of our students and staff,” RCPS Superintendent Terry Oatts said. “We appreciate our law enforcement partners and all that they do to keep our schools safe every day. We are grateful for their willingness to work with our safety department on securing additional staff to enhance safety.”

Rockdale County Sheriff Eric Levett echoed the importance of keeping schools safe.

“With all of the national school shootings, we must work together and work harder to keep our schools and our community safe,” Sheriff Levett said. “This extended partnership shows our commitment to the children and families of Rockdale County to provide even greater safety and security on the campuses of Salem and Heritage high schools.”

RCPS also has partnered with the City of Conyers Police Department to provide an additional SRO at Rockdale County High School, which sits inside the city limits.

“An additional SRO on the campus of Rockdale County High School will improve campus safety and security,” said Conyers Police Chief Scott Freeman. “The School Resource Officers build relationships with students, staff, and parents that are invaluable when a safety threat may arise. Having two officers on campus will benefit the school and community.”

For more information on school safety, visit:  www.rockdaleschools.org.