MISD Welcomes New Safety Resource Officers

Sgt. Richard Pena and Officer Ray Hall

School districts across the country have School Resource Officers (certified police officers) who assist in creating a safe learning and working environment, and promote positive relationships between youth and law enforcement.

Midlothian ISD welcomes Sgt. Richard Pena and Officer Ray Hall, who are both excited to be the new full-time SROs split between all six elementary schools and both middle schools. Their SRO position encompasses three major components: law enforcement, education, and mentoring/counseling.

Sgt. Pena's home campus is Walnut Grove Middle School, and he will rotate between T.E. Baxter Elementary, Longbranch Elementary and J.A. Vitovsky Elementary schools. Officer Hall's home campus is Frank Seale Middle School, and he will rotate between J.R. Irvin Elementary, LaRue Miller Elementary and Mt. Peak Elementary schools. Midlothian High School is fortunate to have Officer James Smith continue his position as a full-time SRO.

"We are thankful for the partnership between the Midlothian Police Department and MISD by providing this safety measure for our school district," Jana Pongratz, public relations coordinator.

Important Message Regarding Fire Lanes

Beginning with the 2013-14 school year, the Midlothian Fire Marshal has notified Midlothian Independent School District and all campuses that the fire department will issue citations to and/or have vehicles towed that are parked unattended in fire lanes. We have been asked to advise staff, students, and parents of the fire department's need to keep the fire lanes clear for access during emergencies. Attended vehicles, especially during drop off and pick up times, are allowed to be in the fire lanes as long as they can readily be moved. Thank you for helping the city maintain proper emergency management procedures.