Warrington, Central Bucks School District Bringing Back SRO Program

WARRINGTON, Pa. — The Warrington Township Board of Supervisors and the Central Bucks School District (CBSD) have announced the reinstatement of the School Resource Officer (SRO) program effective with the start of the 2022-23 school year.

The program will begin with an officer in place at the Central Bucks High School South (CB South) in Warrington.

“The reestablishment of this program has been a high priority for some time, and we are delighted to partner with the school district in its successful implementation this fall,” Warrington Township Chair Fred R. Gaines said.

As a sworn law enforcement officer, the SRO will work cooperatively with the administration and staff at CB South to develop and employ actions and procedures that result in a safer school environment through direct positive interaction with students and connections with administration, faculty, and staff. The officer provides not only a visual reminder of safety in the school, but acts as a mentor to students, said officials.

While primarily located at CB South, the SRO will also frequent other schools located in Warrington Township.

The SRO will have the authority to make arrests, respond to calls, and document incidents that occur within the school. Beyond law enforcement responsibilities, the SRO participates in educational programming, emergency management planning, and strives to employ non-punitive
techniques when interacting with at-risk students.

Warrington Police Chief Daniel J. Friel didn't have to think twice about who the SRO would be.

“Officer Robert Bell has done this before with great success and continues to progress his knowledge and education with extensive training in school safety," said the chief.

Officer Robert Bell, who previously served as the SRO at CB South from 2014 to 2018, will return to the role. Officer Bell recalls that students came to him with a variety of concerns and questions. He
touched base with students in the hallway and focused on building trusted relationships with them.

Supervisor Michael Diorka agreed with the choice of Officer Bell.

“Officer Bell is an ambassador on behalf of his law enforcement colleagues – his presence will serve not only to help create a safer school environment, but a safer community through positive interactions with our youth," he said.

Dana Hunter, the president of the Central Bucks School District’s Board of School Directors, said she sees enormous potential in the program’s return.

“While we know the school resource officer will help our students, faculty, and staff feel safer, Officer Bell’s presence as another trusted adult in the school environment increases the opportunities for our students to build a rapport with an adult who cares about their
personal success and well-being," she said.