St. Catherine South Police Ensuring Safe Schools

The St. Catherine South Police Division is committed to ensuring a safe school environment for teachers and learners.

Territorial Officer for the Division, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Paulett Baker, made the pledge, while addressing the Division’s Safe School Church Service held on Sunday (September 21), at the Greater Portmore Open Bible Church in St. Catherine.

She noted that 10 institutions are receiving special attention, with School Resource Officers (SROs) playing a key role in preserving the learning environment from anti-social behaviours.

She noted that their task is not just to police, but to mentor, counsel, protect, and to inspire.

“Our purpose is clear and single; to create sanctuaries where our nation’s children thrive, where the only thing they fear is a difficult test, and the only gangs they know are a group of friends studying for exams. Our School Resource Officers are the vanguard of this mission. They are guardians, role models, and the first line of defence in fostering a culture of respect and safety,” she said.

“It is the unwavering belief that our children deserve better, that their potential is limitless, and that a safe environment is not a privilege, but a fundamental right,” she added.

DSP Baker underscored that true safety is a collaborative mission, which requires teachers who see beyond the classroom, parents who engage beyond Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) meetings, pastors who preach beyond the pulpit, and neighbours who care beyond their fence lines.

“It requires every single one of us to lock arms and say ‘these are our children and this is our future.’ When we are united by faith and driven by purpose, we create the only environment where academics can truly take root and flourish. A fearful mind cannot learn,” she contended.

Director of the Safety and Security in Schools Unit at the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Richard Troupe, noted that the “profound partnership” between the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and the Ministry has resulted in a “significant reduction in violent incidents at our schools.”

Mr. Troupe told the students in attendance that they have a key role to play.

“It begins with the friends you keep, the things you do. It begins by understanding the importance of your parents’ investment in you going to school. You are going to school to learn, you are going to school to create a path for your career choices,” he pointed out.

The service was held under the theme: ‘Building Safer Schools Through Faith, Unity, and Purpose: Anchored for Academic Success 2025-2026.’