The Windsor police unit responsible for supporting schools is being welcomed back by one local school board.
The Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board (WECDSB) announced Friday that it was bringing back the Windsor police's Community Resource Unit (CRU) officers, which had not been on school campuses in over two years. That move was made necessary by the board's decision to bar school access to non-essential visitors during the COVID-19 pandemic.
WECDSB Director of Education Emelda Byrne said the officers are vital to keeping schools safe and were greatly missed.
“These officers are positive role models for our students, and they offer a wonderful variety of programs that reinforce the values we instill in our students every day," said Byrne. "We have certainly missed having them in our schools and now that most pandemic restrictions have been lifted, our students and staff are excited to have them back."
Windsor Police Acting Chief Jason Bellaire is also happy to send the officers back to the Catholic schools.
"We value our relationships with the amazing students and staff members that populate our schools, and we will continue to invest our resources to strengthen partnerships and enhance community safety," said Bellaire.
Community Resource Unit officers visit schools several times a week. Not only do they assist school staff and mentor students, but officers also offer multiple education programs covering topics like racism and diversity, bullying, and human trafficking. Students in Grade 6 take advantage of the CRU's Values, Influences, and Peers (VIP) Program, which deals with making positive life choices.
More information on the Windsor police's Community Resource Unit can be found on the service's official website.
