Garfield High School asking families Do you want a SPD School Engagement Officer on campus?

Garfield High School is surveying families to assess their support for a Seattle Police Department "School Engagement Officer" on campus, a response to safety concerns following a student's fatal shooting last year. The district has earmarked $235 million in a proposed levy renewal, aimed at enhancing school safety through various measures, including police presence. Superintendent Brent Jones noted ongoing partnerships with law enforcement to bolster security, particularly in high-risk campuses. The survey includes questions on agreement levels regarding an officer's presence and basic demographic information. Responses are due Wednesday, but implementing an officer would require a Seattle School Board vote to lift a moratorium established in 2020.

This moratorium was enacted during widespread protests against police violence, leading to the suspension of a previous partnership with the police. Community violence intervention programs remain active at Garfield, with organizations like Community Passageways involved. The district's safety efforts reflect a complex balancing act between student safety and community concerns about police presence in schools.