School resource officer pilot shows early impact on Oahu

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - A pilot program placing police officers on Oahu school campuses is several months in, with education officials saying early feedback is helping shape whether it continues or expands.

The School Resource Officer program launched in January, stationing three retired and re-sworn Honolulu police officers at Kapolei, Waianae, and Kaimuki high schools. The goal is to provide guidance and support rather than traditional law enforcement, though officials say its future now depends on the selection of the Honolulu Police Department’s next chief.

“They’re going to have their selection sometime this month,” said Sean Tajima, assistant superintendent with the Hawaii Department of Education. “Shortly after that selection is made, we’ll be collaborating with them to determine how we’re going to move forward together.”

At Kaimuki High School, Officer Dana Fatu said staff have already noticed changes in campus climate.

“The VPs were telling me how they see such a difference from the beginning of the school year… the temperament and the temperature has really calmed down here with our presence,” Fatu said.

Fatu, who previously worked at the school as a substitute teacher, said that prior relationship has helped build trust with students now approaching him regularly for support.

“I was a substitute teacher here… so I was able to build a lot of good connections before the SRO,” he said. “Now, being an SRO here, a tremendous connection.”

Education officials say early data from other campuses also shows impact. At Kapolei High School, student discipline has dropped compared to last year. At Kaimuki, officials say students are getting to class more consistently, and officers are also participating in parent events and home visits with counselors.

“They’ve shown a 20% decrease in student discipline compared to last year,” Tajima said.

He also said officers are helping encourage students to consider law enforcement careers through the HPD cadet program and a developing law enforcement pathway at Kaimuki High School.

“We’re talking to classes to encourage kids to consider a career in law enforcement,” Tajima said.

Principal Lorelei Aiwohi said about 13 students have already signed up for the cadet pathway.

“They’ve been focusing on our seniors, getting them aware of the HPD cadet program so you can sign up and get into a paid position,” she said.

DOE officials say they are collecting end-of-year feedback from students, parents and staff to help determine the program’s future across Oahu campuses.