Proposed funding and contract options to meet the requirements of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act, Ch. 2018-3. The draft agreement between the Town of Orange Park School Resource Officer (SRO) program shall include one full time police officer at each of the three schools within the city boundaries for Grove Park Elementary School, Orange Park Elementary School and Orange Park Junior High for the 2023-2024 academic year.

The Town of Orange Park has contracted with the Clay County District Schools to provide a School Resource Officer at the three schools within their municipality for the school year 2022-2023. The Town of Orange park will continue (with the school system) to enhance the connectedness between the local Police Department and the families of students living in Orange Park attending one of the three schools.

During the 2022-2023 school year the Town of Orange Park Police Department planned and implemented Drug Abuse Resistance Education (“DARE”) in collaboration with District personnel. The Town of Orange Park Police Department was also successful in launching a pedestrian safety program at Grove Park Elementary, Orange Park Elementary and Orange Park Junior High.

The presence of the SRO’s on the three campuses will strengthen relationships between the local Police Department, students, and families in the community. This will result in higher quality interactions within the neighborhoods creating a more cohesive and secure campus environment. Students will continue to be educated on the law and illegal activities. The number of aggressive and violent conduct referrals is expected to decline overall.

Ensure effective management of the organization, operations, and facilities to maximize the use of resources and promote a safe, efficient, and effective learning environment for Clay County students. 

Approve the agreement between the Town of Orange Park Police Department and School Board of Clay County that is substantially similar to the one attached.