60+ MNPS elementary schools still need SROs

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) – School threats are on the rise in Tennessee.

On average, law enforcement responds to eleven threats per day. It is a renewed call for every school to appoint a School Resource Officer (SRO).

Wendy Paulson and Kelsey Brasher both have a two-month-old baby. “We both have toddlers too, so we’re on the same timeline,” Brasher said.

Their children go to school at the same time, but there is a sense of anxiety. More than 700 threats have been made against Tennessee schools this year alone.

“I think it’s kind of scary that this is the situation that we’re in, that we have to think about this,” Paulson said.

They would like the schools they send their children to to have SROs.

While all middle and high schools in Metro have one, only seven of the 70 elementary schools do.

“I think it’s really important that our children feel safe,” Brasher said.

Metro Nashville police want to increase that number, but they need to find people to fill those positions.

The department is still understaffed by 118 officers.

“I know the police department in general has had issues hiring,” Paulson said. “It is not surprising that there is a shortage of staff to fill the vacancy.”

MNPD said there are currently 71 trainees at the academy who will graduate next year. Additionally, they encourage SROs from other districts to come work for Metro. MNPD said as staffing levels increase, the number of Nashville elementary schools with SROs will also increase.

“I think this is a step in the right direction,” Brasher said. “I think we can do a lot more.”