Kennedale ISD approves SRO contract: one full‑time and one half‑time officer funded for 2026–27

Trustees approved a negotiated School Resource Officer (SRO) agreement with the city for the 2026–27 school year that funds one SRO at 100% and a second at 50% of salary costs. The district will pay salaries only and will not pick up costs for cars, uniforms or equipment, per the negotiated terms described by staff.

Staff said negotiations had stalled with the city manager during prior sessions but ultimately produced an arrangement that ensures one full‑time officer (anticipated at the high school) and a half‑time officer at the junior high. Board members discussed alternatives — including hiring private armed security at lower apparent cost — but emphasized the benefits of maintaining a relationship with the city police department and the public optics of sworn officers on campus.

Members also reviewed job expectations for SROs. Trustees clarified they expect officers to address disturbances and safety issues and to assist with traffic flow as needed, but not to use stop‑and‑ticket enforcement as routine drop‑off/pick‑up management. Staff noted impending legislative requirements that may require armed security or police officers at larger events, which could increase costs.

A motion to approve the SRO contract for 2026–27 passed unanimously. Staff will finalize contract details, including assignment of the officers and any overtime arrangements for events requiring additional coverage.