Submitted article
The Galion City School District Board of Education unanimously approved a Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Galion Police Department to begin the School Resource Officer program in the district during the board’s regular monthly meeting Feb. 18
Galion Police Lieutenant Lynn Sterling will serve as the district’s School Resource Officer. Lt. Sterling will split time equally between the Galion High School, Galion Middle School, Galion Intermediate School and Galion Primary School.
“The decision made tonight is a proactive step to provide an even safer learning environment for our students, staff and administrators,” Board of Education President Dennis Long said. “I am excited for the educational programs that Lt. Sterling will be providing for our students and staff.”
This program is the first time the school district and City of Galion have collaborated to provide an officer in each of the district’s buildings. Lt. Sterling’s duties as the School Resource Officer will focus on three specific areas: Crime Prevention, Law Enforcement and Educational Programming.
“The protection of the children and staff members is paramount to our department,” Galion Chief of Police Brian Saterfield said. “Lt. Sterling has already made a positive impact by riding busses to deter unruliness, she’s helped teachers resolve classroom issues and is working to help alleviate after school parking issues at the Primary School.”
The program first began with a conversation between school district administration and city leadership. The Galion Police Department is now fully staffed allowing flexibility for the shift commanders to staff the School Resource Officer program.
“This was a situation of right time, right person for the city and the schools,” Galion Mayor Tom O’Leary said. “Lt. Sterling is having lunch with students and discussing issues that concern the students and creating a positive relationship between public safety forces and the community. It’s a win-win for everyone.”
In addition to her duties during the school year, Lt. Sterling will also be responsible for organizing the annual Safety Town program for Galion children. Final details of the program will be announced in the very near future.
“We’ve heard loud and clear the safety concerns from our staff members, parents and the community and believe this program will help provide an even safer learning environment for our students,” Superintendent Jim Grubbs said. “We are incredibly fortunate to have a Galion graduate in Lt. Sterling serving as our School Resource Officer. She is a fantastic addition to our staff.”