Supporting safety, not discipline Seattle School Board considers returning campus cop to Garfield High School

The Seattle School Board will vote on a proposal to assign a uniformed Seattle Police Department officer to Garfield High School, with a focus on safety rather than discipline. This initiative is a response to community discussions and aims to address concerns about the training of officers assigned to schools. Principal Tarance Hart noted that the officer would build positive relationships with students and staff while assisting with emergency preparedness. Public testimony is scheduled for Wednesday night, prior to the board's decision. The proposal reflects ongoing concerns about school violence, particularly following the murder of student Amarr Murphy-Paine.

Seattle voters are also considering a $1. 3 billion school levy this fall, which includes funding for campus security improvements. The district has already enhanced security at Garfield with new mental health resources and security specialists. Additionally, the city plans to expand the police surveillance camera system around the school to bolster safety.