Boise City Wire

Believe it or not, it’s already time to start thinking about kids going back to school.  Parents, students, and teachers are getting ready and so are School Resource Officers.  Here are some common questions answered by BPD School Resource Officer Kindelberger, who works at East Junior High and Sage International School Of Boise.

What is the first day of school typically like for you?

When school starts back up it’s really important to get back into the swing of things. It’s all about getting to know the students, parents, teachers, and staff.  Building those relationships helps me know how to handle certain situations and how I can best help.

What kinds of issues do you typically handle at your school?

Schools often operate a lot like their own small communities. I help students and staff with a range of issues that happen in the classrooms and hallways including things like bullying, fights and students vaping. I also help with issues going on at home, investigate if someone runs away, and assist with Health and Welfare referrals involving students.

What would you want parents and students to know about your role as they get ready to go back to school?

Every Boise Police SRO works to address concerns before they possibly become hurtful or criminal. We use education and counseling to inform students and help them work through problems. As an SRO I’m empowered to divert cases from entering the formal juvenile justice system through alternative methods like school discipline and informal agreements.

Do you have any other tips for students to help them have a safe and successful year?

Communication is an important aspect when it comes to school safety. Talk to your kids about what’s happening at school and share some of the tips below. Also remind them that there are trusted adults, like teachers, supervisors, and SROs who can help them solve an issue.

1. 1. Map out a safe way to walk to school or to the bus stop. If possible, they should avoid crossing busy roads, vacant lots, construction areas, and parks where there aren’t many people. Also, discuss safe places to go in case of an emergency along the route.
   2. Always follow traffic signals and rules when walking or biking.
   3. Do not talk to strangers or people you “sort of know” and do not go anywhere with them without your parents’ permission.
   4. Memorize your phone number and address. Write down other important phone numbers such as your parent’s work and cell phone on a card to carry with you.
   5. Use the buddy system and walk/bike to school with friends.
   6. Avoid wearing clothing with your name on it while walking to and from school.
   7. If home alone before or after school, don’t open the door if someone rings the doorbell or knocks on the door or windows.  Don’t tell strangers or people you “sort of know” you’re by yourself before or after school.
   8. If you are allowed to have a cell phone, make sure it has a full charge when going to school.  Make sure you save enough battery to get home.

Original source can be found here.