South West Illinois News

Monroe County Republicans Treasurer Neil Giffhorn said that House Bill 1346 provides essential resources for hiring trained School Resource Officers (SROs), thereby ensuring safer environments for students across Illinois. Giffhorn made his statement to SW Illinois News on January 27.

"House Bill 1346 is a critical step in creating safer schools for children throughout Illinois," said Giffhorn. "The bill allocates much-needed funding to hire trained School Resource Officers, enhancing protection for students and educators alike. Concerned Parents Illinois was a driving force behind this effort, demonstrating their passion for safeguarding kids. This collaboration proves that when communities and leaders work together, real change is possible."

According to Representative Davis's office, the bill was introduced to enhance school safety in Illinois through the SRO Grant Program. The proposed legislation would allocate funding for schools to hire active or retired law enforcement officers as SROs, with salary reimbursements managed by the State Board of Education. SROs must meet certification requirements from the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board. Davis emphasized the importance of proactive safety measures, noting that SROs also serve as mentors. The bill, developed with input from Concerned Parents Illinois leader Kristina McCloy, is awaiting action in the Illinois House.

Concerned Parents Illinois is described on its website as a nonpartisan political action committee focused on supporting families, communities, and education. The organization advocates for policies and leaders who prioritize the well-being of children and families, including parental involvement in child-rearing decisions. It also promotes academic achievement and traditional family values, aiming to create opportunities for all Illinois children to succeed.

The National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) cited a 2015–16 U.S. Department of Education School Survey on Crime and Safety, which found that 22% of schools had full-time SROs. The survey also reported that 68% of high schools, 59% of middle schools, and 30% of elementary schools had an SRO present weekly. NASSP noted that SROs can be properly trained for school settings, with clear roles outlined in a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) emphasizing safety, education, mentorship, and leaving discipline to school administrators.

The Monroe County Republicans website said that Neil Giffhorn was first elected Monroe County Republican Treasurer in 2020 and has a strong record of public service. Since 2017, he has served on the Waterloo Community School Board as vice president. Giffhorn also holds leadership roles with Scouting America, serving on the Greater St. Louis Area Executive Board and as Kaskaskia Region District Chair. As an attorney and parent of a Waterloo student, he brings valuable insight into advocating for local children. Giffhorn and his wife reside in Waterloo with their two children.