Santa Rosa Leaders Weigh Police Return to High Schools After Recent Violence

City and school officials are evaluating a three-year pilot program to reinstate officers at campuses, with unresolved questions about funding and timing.

Santa Rosa city and school leaders are considering a three-year pilot program to place one police officer at each of the city's five main high schools.
The proposal comes after a five-year pause of the school resource officer program, initially halted amidst debates over law enforcement in schools.
Recent violent incidents at Elsie Allen High School, including a classroom stabbing and a gun-related arrest, have reignited safety concerns.
The school district faces significant financial challenges, including school closures and layoffs, complicating decisions about funding the program.
If approved, the program would run from July 2025 to July 2028, but funding details remain unresolved as discussions continue.