On March 6, 2015 the city delegation in Annapolis made the decision to “kill the bill” that would've allowed Baltimore School Police to carry weapons in schools during school hours. We believe that our schools are a direct reflection of our communities. Unfortunately, the myriad of issues that occur in these communities find their way into our schools. As a trained and certified police agency, our primary goal is to provide a safe and secure environment in which to learn and teach. In order to provide the level of safety necessary for students to achieve their maximum potential we partner and build relationship with the surrounding communities.

According to Maryland state law, Baltimore School Police officers are certified and have all the police powers of any peace officer or police officer in the state of Maryland. We receive the same academy training as Baltimore City police. By law, we are the primary agency responsible for the property owned, leased and operated or controlled by Baltimore City Public Schools. Additionally, we work in tandem with The Baltimore City Police Department which gives us full authority to enforce the law within the limits of the city. This means that school police officers have a responsibility to take the necessary action when there is a need for restoring order in Baltimore City.

Baltimore School Police officers are the only law enforcement agency in the state of Maryland that work solely for the purpose of providing safety to its learning institutions. This agency has garnered the support of every law enforcement agency in the state of Maryland. We have also received the support from the unions of Baltimore City principals and teachers.

We need your support to ensure we fulfill the responsibilities of our duties. There have been several incidences where school police officers have confiscated controlled dangerous substances,weapons and prevented assaults on students and staff. Our role goes above the scope of law enforcement. School Police officers mediate parent-teacher conferences, mentor students as well as provide helpful information and resources to parents who are looking for assistance in the positive growth of their child. Positive relationships with students and parents are paramount to the success of everyone involved, which reflects directly on the community.

We believe that carrying our weapons in schools is not only a deterrent, but is required by any sworn law enforcement officer in the United States of America. Preventing harmful and dangerous threats against our students and staff would be extremely difficult if we were prevented from fully exercising our duties as sworn officers.

Baltimore School Police officers are in the mission of supporting students and to ensure a stable and safe learning environment. By no means are we here to police or militarize our schools. The safety of our students and staff is the primary goal while also maintaining a working relationship with the surrounding community. Please join us in supporting bill HB0101.