Montgomery Schools See More Police, Sheriff Presence In Year 2 Of Safety Plan

MONTGOMERY, NJ — Montgomery Township police and the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office are continuing a joint school safety initiative for a second year, expanding law enforcement visibility at local schools and working with administrators on security and emergency preparedness.

Under the partnership, officers from both agencies will conduct routine patrols and walkthroughs at school campuses, maintain communication with school administrators and coordinate on school safety and emergency preparedness.

The initiative is intended to provide an additional law enforcement presence while strengthening relationships among police, students, educators and families.

"The safety of our children is our top priority," said Montgomery Township Police Chief Silvio Bet. "By combining our resources, personnel, and expertise with the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office, we are taking a proactive approach to school safety. This partnership strengthens our ability to deter threats, respond effectively when necessary, and provide our schools with the visible support they deserve. Most importantly, we want our students, staff, and parents to feel safe, supported, and confident in their school communities."

Bet also thanked Somerset County Sheriff Darrin Russo and members of the Sheriff’s Office for continuing to assist the township police department and community.

According to the announcement, Russo emphasized the importance of a unified approach to protecting the community’s schools and said the partnership gives the agencies an opportunity to combine resources and experience in support of school security.

"Keeping our schools safe is a responsibility we all share," Russo said. "Our goal is simple: to help create an environment where students can come to school feeling safe, secure, and ready to learn."

Montgomery Township High School Principal Heather Pino-Beattie said cooperation between the school and law enforcement agencies is an important part of maintaining a safe school environment.

"For me, school safety has never been just about procedures or protocols. It is about people knowing they are seen, supported, and protected," said Pino-Beattie. "Our partnership with the Montgomery Township Police Department and the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office reflects that belief. By working together, communicating openly, and being present in our schools and community, we have built relationships that make us better prepared and more connected. I am incredibly grateful for the officers who invest their time and energy in our schools and help us create an environment where students and staff can feel safe, supported, and ready to learn."

The agencies said they will continue to evaluate the partnership and consider additional strategies and resources to improve school preparedness, communication and security.

Residents were also encouraged to report suspicious or concerning activity to law enforcement, with the agencies calling school safety a shared responsibility.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.