Niskayuna Central School District > Archive > District budget proposal invests in additional safety and security measures at Niskayuna
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District budget proposal invests in additional safety and security measures at Niskayuna

As part of its proposed 2025-26 school district budget, Niskayuna has included several measures aimed at strengthening and expanding safety and security within school buildings. This investment is one of a handful of budget priorities for the upcoming academic year, along with continuing to create a strong academic program, supporting students’ mental health and wellbeing, and keeping ongoing building renovations at Niskayuna’s middle level on track.

To bolster school safety and security, the district’s proposed budget includes funding for:

  • Hiring a part-time Security Director/Coordinator;
  • Converting high school hall monitor positions to full-time security monitors;
  • Placing full-time security monitors at each elementary school;
  • Investing in security monitor training and certification;and,
  • Restoring the district’s School Resource Officer (SRO) Program.

Explaining the role of a School Resource Officer (SRO)

An SRO is a law enforcement officer who is assigned to work in collaboration with a school district. The role of a school resource officer varies from district to district, but often, SROs act as protectors, mentors, and informal educators. An SRO program goes beyond safety; it encourages students to build healthy relationships with law enforcement.

View a handout that describes the role of the SRO here.

An SRO would work with the district on emergency planning, be available to assist in a crisis situation before additional law enforcement arrive, and be present in hallways and gathering areas to interact with students and build relationships within the school community.

Over the years, research has shown that SROs can improve overall school culture and climate. The benefits of having an SRO include preventing student injuries, preventing property damage in school buildings, reducing the need for schools to call 911, and increasing the likelihood that students will get the help they need from social services and health care systems.

Upon approval of the 2025-26 proposed budget, the district will continue working with the Niskayuna Police Department to successfully relaunch SRO programming in the upcoming school year.