Crane schools strengthen campus safety with dedicated officers
Adrik Vargas
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – Students at Crane and Centennial Middle Schools will now see more safety support on campus, thanks to a new move by the Crane Elementary School District.
The district has assigned two full-time School Resource Officers (SROs), one for each middle school, instead of having a single officer split time between both campuses.
“So by having this dedicated individual that’s on site, [it] will provide a consistent outlook and be able to foster and develop relationships within the student body at both campuses,” said Dale Ponder, the district’s Chief of Finances and Operations.
District leaders say the change isn’t just about responding to emergencies, but about building stronger connections with students and helping them feel supported.
“They provide law related education to the student body and help educate the students about their function…but the SRO is just an extension of the school and being able to provide a safe and secure environment where they can also ensure rapid response in the case of an emergency,” Ponder added.
Crane Middle School Principal Ryan Tyree says the daily presence of an officer makes a real difference on campus.
“Having an officer here every day makes a big difference, not just with visibility, but they have the opportunity to really establish strong and meaningful relationships with our students,” Tyree said.
He also pointed out the impact on parents’ peace of mind.
“Parents send their child to our school, and it’s our job to keep them safe and secure, so it just adds another layer of security and sense of feeling safe at school,” Tyree said.
Crane District officials say it’s all part of their broader goal: Creating a safer, more supportive environment for students every day.