Oxford Schools Welcome New Security Officers

OXFORD, CT — On their very successful first day of school, the students and staff of Oxford Public Schools were welcomed by newly hired security officers. Due to an increase in intruder incidents in schools across the country, the Oxford Public School District, along with First Selectman George Temple, increased its security heading into the 2019-2020 school year.

First Selectman Temple stated,"I believe we have four very experienced officers. Each one excellent at relating to children. It is a shame that we have to take such measures, but it is better to be prepared."

Anthony Spencer, an armed security officer at Center School, is a resident of Plainville and a retired New Britain Police Officer of 28 years. While in New Britain, Spencer was a field training officer and a SWAT team leader.

Clyde O’Bar, an armed security officer for Quaker Farms School, is a resident of Middlebury and a retired Naugatuck police officer of 21 years. During his time in Naugatuck, he taught the D.A.R.E. Program and served as an assistant youth officer.

Officer Jose Tarverner, SRO at Oxford High School, has been with the Oxford Police Department for three years after retiring from the Orange Police Department. Having served 22 years, he was a D.A.R.E. officer for three years and a detective and sergeant.

Oxford Officer Dave Nichols, SRO at Great Oak Middle School, was hired in November 2018, after his retirement from the Connecticut State Police where he was stationed at Troop G in Bridgeport for 28 years. During this time, he was a K9 officer and a member of the Community Police Program, as well as being involved with the Toys for Tots program. Both Officer Tarverner and Officer Nichols attended extensive week long SRO training this past summer.