While the first day of school may be approaching, the faculty, staff and administrators have been hard at work for most of the summer.
Mansfield’s new Superintendent, Joe Staton said that although they have many new hires this school year, they are not anicipating any issues on the first day of school.
Mansfield Police Chief Wayne Robb agrees, and he fully intends to pick up on last year’s tradition of greeting the students each morning at the elementary school.
Additionally, he said that Officer Sean White will be spending time at all three schools. The district and the police department will once again team up with the Sebastian County Sheriff’s Office and the Waldron Police Department to do random K-9 searches on the campus.
Robb said he will be recommending that the school hire at least one school resource officer.
Robb said last year the district battled the ongoing vaping problem with students, adding “those 18 years of age are charged as adults, and those under 18 are charged as juveniles. They are suspended and a juvenile officer makes the decision on the charge.”
He also stated that there is zero tolerance for students bringing pocket knives to school. “There are stiff penalties for this,” he concluded.
With much preparation and planning, the coordination between the school district and local law enforcement will ensure a safe, and smooth transition back to school.
