Senate Education Committee Chair Expresses Strong Support for School Resource Officers to Protect Arizona Children

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Friday, January 24, 2025

Senate Education Committee Chair Expresses Strong Support for School Resource Officers to Protect Arizona Children

PHOENIX, ARIZONA— In response to a near tragedy at a Tucson school, Senate Education Committee Chair David Farnsworth is expressing strong support for school resource officers in Arizona's K-12 schools.

On January 16, an off-duty Tucson Police Officer working as a school resource officer at Legacy Traditional School East responded to a report of an armed man inside the school's gymnasium who was threatening to harm children. The school resource officer immediately detained the armed man and brought him into custody.

This alarming event highlights the importance of trained school resource officers and their presence in Arizona schools. In 2023, the Legislature recognized a statewide concern for inadequate school safety precautions and has since launched an initiative known as the School Safety Program that provides funding for school districts to hire school resource officers.

"I applaud the Tucson School District for obtaining the grant and working in conjunction with local law enforcement to hire the off-duty Tucson Police Officer that saved the lives of the children and faculty present that day," said Chairman Farnsworth. "We cannot continue to leave classrooms open with easy access for predators. We must come together as a community and encourage school districts to apply for the grant and put measures into place that protect the safety of students and school faculty. I am committed to working with stakeholders, school boards, and the Legislature to prioritize school safety legislation that safeguards Arizona schools from threats."  

"Only the heroic actions of the school resource officer, William Bonanno, prevented a catastrophe. He undoubtedly saved lives because of his incredible professionalism in that he was experienced enough to act quickly rather than wait for backup," said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne. "The presence of an armed officer has sadly become a crucial element of campus safety, and this incident proves that beyond a doubt. The heroism of this officer means that more than 20 families have not experienced the tragic death or injury to an innocent child. As a parent who has suffered the loss of a child, I can tell you that you never get over it."

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For more information, contact:

Kim Quintero

Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus

kquintero@azleg.gov