Fort Wayne Community Schools (FWCS) announced that it will not renew its School Resource Officer (SRO) agreement with the Fort Wayne Police Department (FWPD) after the 2026 school year. Beginning Jan. 1, 2027, the district will employ 18 new School Security Officers to serve its middle‑ and high‑school campuses.
Why the change matters for families
The shift aligns with the district’s 2023 SAFER referendum, which called for a doubling of security personnel in secondary schools. By hiring officers directly, FWCS expects greater flexibility in assigning staff across buildings and a stronger ability to build relationships with students and families.
Although the new officers will receive the same SRO training, they will not be sworn law‑enforcement officers. Instead, they will work as FWCS employees, reporting to school administrators and coordinating with local police when necessary. This model allows the district to place officers where they are needed most, including elementary schools, while keeping day‑to‑day safety decisions in the hands of educators.
Financial impact
The district estimates the new security program will cost about $1.2 million annually. Continuing the existing FWPD contract would have cost roughly $1.13 million in 2027—more than double the $539,870 paid for the program in 2026. By moving the program in‑house, FWCS aims to control costs while maintaining a robust safety presence.
Reactions from city leaders
Superintendent Mark Daniel thanked the police department for years of service and partnership, emphasizing the district’s ongoing commitment to safe, supportive learning environments. Police Chief P.J. Smith expressed disappointment at the contract’s end but noted that returning officers to street patrols will help the department meet its broader public‑safety goals.
Mayor Sharon Tucker also praised the long‑standing collaboration between the city and the school district, affirming that both entities will continue to work together on matters affecting student and community safety.
What families can expect
FWCS says the new security officers will focus on building trust with students, responding promptly to incidents, and working closely with school staff to address safety concerns. Parents are encouraged to stay engaged with school administrators and to share any concerns about campus security.
The transition reflects a broader trend of districts seeking more direct control over campus safety while preserving strong ties to local law‑enforcement agencies. As Fort Wayne moves forward with its district‑run security model, families can anticipate continued attention to safe learning spaces without sacrificing the collaborative relationship the city and schools have cultivated over the years.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
