Dear Editor,
With the increase in gangland shootings in the Lower Mainland, the need for school liaison officer programs (SLO) in schools is evident. In Richmond, the RCMP provides a positive role model for students, meeting confidentially with them and forming meaningful relationships.
Several other jurisdictions have eliminated the SLO program, but now is the time to embrace the opportunity to provide students with awareness-based education and build strong relationships between police and youth. For 25 years, the city, in partnership with the RCMP and school district, has provided the SLO, DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education), and Youth Academy programs for students.
The school district is the only one in B.C. with an award-winning drug awareness and education program for all Grade 5 students. DARE educates children at the crucial Grade 5 level, which prepares them for high school when they are most likely to encounter pressure to use drugs.
This community outreach and engagement program allows an RCMP officer to teach students how to make cultural decisions and choices around bullying, racism, drugs and gangs, and most importantly, being good citizens.
Having an SLO in the school provides additional safety and allows students to consult, confide, and, in some cases, bond with an impartial person. The officers also volunteer their time with students at before and after school activities.
It is now more important than ever to keep and support the school liaison program entirely funded by the RCMP. Richmond’s SLOs serve as a critical resource for students, administrators and teachers, providing advice and support regarding public safety, playing an essential role in keeping our community safe. Keeping this program in our schools is not a difficult decision. It is the right decision.
Bill McNulty & Linda McPhail
RICHMOND CITY COUNCILLORS
