The Gorham Police Department (GPD) recently announced the appointment of School Resource Officer (SRO) Todd Gagnon. He was sworn in on October 2 at the Gorham Public Safety Complex.

The responsibilities of a K-5 SRO include: attending and participating in school functions; building working relationships with the school’s staff as well as with student and parent groups; initiating interactions with students in the classroom and general areas of the school building; promoting the profession of a police officer; and being a positive role model.

School resource officers also support a safe school environment by providing law enforcement and police services to the school. They establish and maintain a close partnership with school administrators and assist in conflict resolution efforts.

Additionally, they work with social workers, guidance counselors, and other student support staff to assist students as well as to provide services to students involved in any situation where referrals to service agencies are necessary.

Gagnon joined the GPD in July of 2000 and has been assigned to the Patrol Division. He has filled in for SRO positions in the past and he now assumes this new role certified as a basic SRO. He will be assigned to the three elementary schools in Gorham. Becky Fortier, principal of Great Falls, is excited about Gagnon starting his new partnership with Gorham Schools.