School Resource Officers strengthen safety and connection across local schools
At Marysville Getchell High School and Totem Middle School, School Resource Officers have become part of the daily rhythm of campus life. Their presence reaches far beyond safety, it’s rooted in connection, trust and showing up for young people in the moments that matter. Officer Phil Powers and Officer Jerry Duemmell serve 14 schools across the district. The Marysville Police Department’s growing SRO program reflects the department’s deep commitment to proactive safety, youth engagement and strong partnerships with families and educators.
Sergeant David Mckenna, who leads the team, says his officers have become irreplaceable role models for students. “Our SROs show up every day to make sure our students feel safe and supported. The relationships they’ve built with kids, families and staff have strengthened this community in ways that go far beyond responding to calls.”
During a national SRO convention, presenters highlighted the broader landscape of school safety staffing across the country. Nationally, there are about 23,400 SROs, which averages roughly 460 per state. While some states exceed that average and others fall below it, Washington’s estimated 167 SROs place it significantly under the national midpoint. Reviews published in the Journal of Adolescent Health found that many students report feeling safer and more supported when School Resource Officers are present, particularly because SROs improve threat reporting and access to trusted adults. Reviews also noted that outcomes vary widely across districts, with the most positive results occurring in programs grounded in relationship building, prevention and collaboration. That context underscores the importance of departments like Marysville PD that continue to prioritize sworn, fully trained SROs rather than school security monitors.
At Marysville Getchell High School, administrators rely on SRO Powers in ways that extend well beyond responding to incidents. Powers helps connect students with resources, supports those who may be struggling outside of school and works closely with staff to address concerns before they escalate. He also understands the importance of creating a welcoming environment where students feel comfortable talking, asking for help and sharing concerns without fear or judgment. By keeping interactions light and relatable, Powers builds the kind of trust that encourages honest conversations and early support.
According to staff, one of the most important things Officer Powers provides is the ability to recognize when students are heading down an unsafe path and step in early, but in a way that feels supportive rather than punitive. Staff members say the biggest “why” behind having SROs on campus is that they are a protective factor.
If a student is in a dangerous situation, whether it is something that feels scary, involves potential trafficking or grooming, or could escalate into something much worse, having direct access to a trusted police officer can stop harm before it happens. Staff say SROs’ knowledge of students and the community is invaluable. Their role helps keep kids on the right path, and schools are stronger because of it.
“Our School Resource Officers play an important role in how we support and protect students. Their ongoing training helps them connect, build trust and respond in ways that keep staff, students and families safe. We are committed to this program because it invests directly in the well-being of our youth and the safety of our campuses,” Chief Erik Scairpon said. In Marysville, this means Officers Powers and Duemmell are equipped not only to respond to safety concerns, but also to mentor students, support staff and help create a school environment where young people feel safe, supported and connected to their community.