The Snoqualmie Police Department is progressing toward reinstating the School Resource Officer (SRO) position, which has been on hold since September 3, 2024, due to staffing challenges.
“Filling the SRO position remains our top priority,” said Police Chief Brian Lynch. “We understand the crucial importance of the on-site SRO when it comes to ensuring the safety and security of Snoqualmie Valley School District students, staff, and faculty.”
To address the situation, the department is:
- Actively recruiting a full-time, lateral School Resource Officer.
- Providing daytime patrol officers at Mount Si High School each school day.
- Anticipating the return of SRO Gutwein to a light-duty capacity within two months following recovery from a work-related injury. Gutwein will serve as a liaison between the department and the school district during his transition.
Meet Chief Lynch at Chat with the Chief on September 18
Snoqualmie and North Bend residents are invited to discuss the SRO position and other public safety topics with Chief Lynch during the next Chat with the Chief event on Wednesday, September 18, 2024. There will be two opportunities to meet with him:
- 9-10 a.m. at Arete Coffee Bar, 112 West 2nd Street, North Bend
- 5:30-6:30 p.m. at Snoqualmie Parkway Starbucks (next to MOD Pizza), Snoqualmie
Chief Lynch added, “The past four years have been challenging times for officer recruitment across our region, but the Snoqualmie Police Department is committed to having a presence at Mount Si High School and providing law enforcement services to any school within its jurisdiction. We look forward to reinstating our school resource officer as soon as possible.”
