Bothell families and students are in an uproar over the Northshore School Board's decision to terminate the district's 30-year-old School Resource Officer (SRO) program, citing safety concerns. This move has sparked a heated debate, with many questioning the board's judgment and the future of campus safety.
The SRO program, a cornerstone of Bothell High School's security for decades, has been a subject of intense scrutiny. Students and families are particularly upset about the removal of armed officer Garrett Ware, who has been a familiar presence on campus. The board's decision to replace Ware with campus supervisors has raised eyebrows, as some argue that the new arrangement may not provide the same level of security.
The protest on May 18, 2026, was a powerful display of student and parental dissatisfaction. Hundreds of students walked out of class, and dozens of families attended the school board meeting, armed with signs and questions. The anger directed at the board was palpable, as they sought answers regarding the program's termination.
The board's stance that the program doesn't adequately support all students has been met with skepticism. While some students and the superintendent supported the SRO program, the majority of the board members disagreed, voting against Ware's contract renewal. This decision has left many wondering about the board's priorities and the potential consequences for student safety.
The aftermath of the vote has been one of uncertainty. The board's reluctance to engage with attendees' questions about the SRO program has only fueled the fire. Superintendent Dr. Justin Irish's decision to decline an interview with KOMO News and the board's president, Sandy Hayes, referring questions to a spokesperson, has further complicated matters. The lack of transparency has left families and students feeling unheard and concerned.
The question of whether the board will reconsider its decision hangs in the air. For a re-vote to occur, one of the four dissenting board members would need to initiate the process. However, the board's stance on the matter remains firm, and the future of Bothell High School's security is still uncertain.
This controversy raises important questions about the role of SROs in schools and the balance between security and other educational priorities. It also highlights the power of student and parental activism in influencing school policies. As the debate continues, the outcome will significantly impact the safety and well-being of Bothell's students and the community's trust in their school administration.
