School board approves School Resource Officer interlocal agreement for 2026–27

The Arlington School Board voted to approve an interlocal agreement with the City of Arlington to continue placement of a school resource officer (SRO) in district schools for the 2026–27 school year.

Brian Lewis, the district’s executive director of operations, told the board the proposed agreement would run Sept. 1, 2026, through June 11, 2027, and that the district’s estimated cost for its share of an officer’s salary and benefits is $147,741 for the 180-school-day assignment. Lewis reviewed the program’s history in the district, recent student, staff and family survey results and said the agreement had been reviewed by district and city legal counsel and complies with applicable policy and state law.

Director Kelly moved to approve the agreement and Director Watts seconded the motion. The board voted to approve the interlocal agreement.

Board discussion referenced the district’s survey work showing varied student experience with SROs, and several board members and student advisors said they value the role. Student advisor Maddie Van Beek said she appreciated having an officer as a resource at her school. Lewis noted that when the officer is conducting field investigations or family outreach the officer may not be visibly present in a building but still provides services.

The board did not adopt changes to the SRO program at the meeting; the approved agreement authorizes the 2026–27 assignment under the terms presented. The district will continue coordination with the city and the police department on staffing and assignment details.