The Moore County Schools Board of Education approved a proposal during its April 20 regular business meeting to restructure the district’s school resource officer (SRO) program under the Moore County Sheriff’s Office, announced the school district in a press release.
“The decision follows discussion focused on the long-term sustainability and staffing of school-based law enforcement across the district’s 24 schools,” said the release.
The approved plan will transition the SRO program from the Moore County Schools Police Department to the Sheriff’s Office, with implementation beginning in January 2027.
“The Board’s action is intended to strengthen the district’s ability to ensure that every school is staffed with a dedicated, armed law enforcement officer,” said the release.
Full implementation is expected to occur over approximately 18 months.
Moore County Schools has experienced ongoing challenges in recruiting and retaining school-based law enforcement personnel. State regulations limit the district’s ability to hire officers directly from the academy, and the structure of school-based positions creates challenges when competing with local law enforcement agencies on compensation.
“We are deeply grateful for the men and women who have served as School Resource Officers in Moore County Schools,” said Board Chair Dr. Robin Calcutt. “Their commitment to protecting our schools, building relationships with students and employees, and serving our community has made a lasting impact, and I could not be more proud of their professionalism and experience. While this transition represents a change, it is a step forward in strengthening school safety. We are confident that partnering with the Sheriff’s Office will allow us to place a dedicated officer in every school, further enhancing the safety and security of our students, employees, and facilities.”
The district said it will partner with the Moore County Sheriff’s Office to support a smooth, well-coordinated transition that maintains continuity and prioritizes safety in every school.
Additional information will be shared as implementation planning progresses.
Contributed article.
