When they're young, students develop a better image of police, Superintendent Dave Hartenback said. As a show of support and cooperation, police should pay much of the costs, Stephens said. It makes sense that law enforcement would supply that protection. But some local departments disagree. The district so far has not paid.
Cost is an issue for other services, too.
For instance, the number of DPS social workers has dropped from 55 to 47 since 1990. Many schools have a social worker half-time or once a week. However, the district plans no more reductions. It also will collaborate soon with city social and medical services and community organizations, Moskowitz said. Jefferson County organized a coalition of police, health and community groups several years ago.