Michigan District Weighs Armed Security in Elementary Schools

The Swartz Creek Board of Education is talking about adding private security guards to the elementary schools. That conversation tells you that school safety is front and center again.

Current School Resource Officer Coverage in Swartz Creek

Right now, the district already works with the Metro Police Authority of Genesee County. There’s one full-time school resource officer and one part-time school safety officer covering the district according to MLive. But according to Board Treasurer Ken Engel, who’s about to step into the role of Clayton Township Police Chief, that may not be enough.

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Engel suggested hiring private security, possibly retired police officers, as a more affordable option. The big thing to note, these guards would not have arrest powers. They would be there as a visible presence, an added layer of protection.

Debate Over Armed Guards in Mid-Michigan Schools

He also made it clear he believes the biggest threat areas are the high school and middle school, saying that’s where officers should primarily be assigned. But not everyone on the board sees it the same way.

Trustee Autumn Henry said she would rather not outsource security and wants a deadline set to hire another SRO before turning to private guards. Meanwhile, Trustee Kim Winter supports the idea of armed guards and even suggested placing one in each elementary school.

How Grant Funding Could Impact Swartz Creek School Safety

Money, of course, is part of the conversation. The district hopes to use grant funding, but right now they don’t know how much would actually be available.
So nothing is decided yet. The board plans to revisit the idea once they have a clearer picture of funding. But here’s what is clear. In 2026, this is where school conversations are. Not just curriculum. Not just budgets. Safety. And for a lot of parents in Swartz Creek, that’s the only topic that really matters.