Bellingham Schools puts program inviting first responders into schools on hiatus

BELLINGHAM, Wash. — Part of the recent debate about policing has been the role of officers in schools.

Bellingham Superintendent Dr. Greg Baker says some have expressed concern about having armed officers in schools.

That’s prompted the district to put on hiatus a program inviting first responders, including fire and EMT personnel, into schools to have lunch with students.

Whatcom County Sheriff Bill Elfo says he’s been in communication with Dr. Baker.

The district is maintaining one resource officer for all of its schools but also relying more on trained support staff for students.

Baker says in a statement that officers are also parents and neighbors who play a vital role in our schools and community.

He says the conversation over police in schools continues.

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