Walker County School Board Silent on SRO Controversy

The Walker County School Board held its first meeting since Sheriff Nick Smith's indictment for allegedly hiring unqualified School Resource Officers (SROs). Despite a grand jury recommendation to revise policies and ensure SROs meet state certification, the issue wasn't discussed during the regular meeting.

Uncertified Deputies Guarding Schools?

Records show at least four Walker County deputies served as SROs without proper Alabama Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission (APOSTC) certification. The contract between the school system and the sheriff's department, doesn't seem to explicitly require certification.

$400,000 SRO Program Under Scrutiny

The school system shells out around $400,000 yearly on its SRO program. Superintendent Dr. Dennis Willingham, subpoenaed in the investigation, wouldn't comment, but stated the district's dedication to student safety.

Teachers Express Concerns

Teachers are worried after finding uncertified deputies in their schools. One teacher, also a city mayor, felt misled and concerned about campus security.

What's Next for the School Board?

With summer programs ongoing, everyone's watching for the school board's next move. A special meeting is set for June 30 to discuss personnel, but it's not confirmed if SRO program changes are on the agenda. The timeline for policy review remains a mystery.