SRO APPEAL

To our loving and supportive School and Parish Community,

Holy Name School sets the safety and security of students, staff, and all those involved in our school community as a primary focus.  Over the past year several safety and security areas identified in the strategic plan have been addressed to include; secure vestibules at entry points for visitors, a visitor management system, bollards in the parking lot, taller fencing around the preschool playground, and speed bumps in the parking lot.

The school continues to pursue and improve upon safety and security in policy, procedure, and facility on a daily basis.  It is in this pursuit that the school has decided to partner with the Henderson Police Department to employ a School Resource Officer (SRO).  As a physical, visible presence, Holy Name School’s SRO will provide safety and security to students and staff, education on safety and security procedures, mentorship to students forming healthy relationships with law enforcement, and be a community resource in resolving conflicts.

As part of Holy Name School’s budgetary plan, the SRO position will be included in the 2026-2027 school year budget.  However, given the increased violence towards schools, the inclusion of a SRO will take place within the 2025-2026 school year and the school is seeking assistance in funding this increased security measure for this initial unbudgeted year.  The goal is to raise $75,000.  

Holy Name School understands finances are tight, expenses are extreme, and the necessities of our community members must be met. Given these trying times, we ask that if you are able to give, you prayerfully consider a contribution to the safety and security of our students and staff.  As a community, we owe it to our students and staff to protect them and provide for a safe and secure environment for their educational success.

Why include a SRO in your school family…

• Although not involved with disciplinary concerns, SROs are a deterrent and redirect poor behaviors before they happen.
• SROs assist in development of emergency response plans.
• SROs observe the school environment and provide suggestions on improvements for facilities to increase safety.
• SROs develop positive relationships with students while guiding the students to make good life-long choices. 
• SROs have community resources which partner with schools to provide social services, legal aid, and mental health support for students and their families. 
• Data suggests that SROs can create a sense of safety which supports students’ ability to focus and learn.
• SROs can present educational programs to both the staff and students on matters such as drug and alcohol abuse, emergency preparedness, and active shooter training among other things.