Aiken County, September 4, 2025
News Summary
Aiken County is expanding its School Resource Officer (SRO) program by adding two new officers to address the need for enhanced school safety. This initiative aligns with Governor Henry McMaster’s push for an SRO in every school in South Carolina, especially in light of troubling educational statistics. Currently, 15 schools in Aiken County do not have a full-time SRO, sparking discussions for additional state funding. The Sheriff’s Office will utilize a recent grant to bolster officer positions, underscoring local efforts to improve school safety and educational outcomes.
Aiken County is expanding its School Resource Officer (SRO) program by adding two new officers, responding to an initiative from South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster aimed at placing an SRO in every school in the state. This decision follows concerning educational outcomes, with less than two-thirds of South Carolina students reading at grade level, and fewer than half being proficient in math.
The Aiken County Sheriff’s Office will be allocated funding for the two new SRO positions, which are mandated to be filled within 180 days. Currently, Aiken City employs one officer at each high school and middle school. However, out of the county’s elementary schools, only one has a dedicated SRO at present, leading to plans for increasing this number as resources allow.
Aiken County currently ranks second in South Carolina for the number of schools without a full-time SRO, with 15 schools lacking adequate security personnel. In contrast, Horry County holds the record with 29 campuses without a full-time SRO. In light of these statistics, Aiken County school officials are actively lobbying for additional state funding to expand this program further.
Funding and Resource Allocation
Governor McMaster had previously requested $21.1 million to finance SRO positions for 177 schools lacking coverage. However, the South Carolina House of Representatives has only allocated $3.7 million of this request. In total, the number of full-time SROs in South Carolina has significantly increased from 406 in 2018 to 1,106 today.
Aiken City Council has obtained a grant of $346,513 from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety to fund SRO positions at Chukker Creek Elementary School and continue financing at Minnie B. Kennedy Middle and Schofield Middle Schools. This grant will cover salaries, training, uniforms, specialized supplies, as well as vehicles, radios, and computers needed for SROs.
Future Expansion Plans
Aiken Department of Public Safety is making strides to broaden the SRO program, with plans initiating in the first quarter of each year. Notifications for the new program are anticipated by June. Councilwoman Andrea Gregory emphasized the importance of collaboration between local public safety departments and the school district to maintain safety and discipline for students.
Broader Context
Since 2018, Governor McMaster has consistently advocated for funding to ensure the presence of full-time SROs in every school, aiming to bolster both safety and the relationship between law enforcement and community members. Aiken County’s decision to expand its SRO program is a step towards fulfilling that vision, particularly in light of ongoing educational challenges facing the area.
Statistical Overview
The expansion of Aiken County’s SRO program is part of a broader effort to ensure student safety and improve educational performance across South Carolina. As the county endeavors to appoint dedicated officers in elementary schools, there remains a pressing need for additional funding and staffing to meet safety goals.
Conclusion
The increase in School Resource Officers in Aiken County reflects an ongoing effort to augment student safety amid challenging educational statistics. The collaborative initiatives among local authorities aim not only to comply with state mandates but to enhance the overall educational environment for students.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the School Resource Officer program?
The SRO program is designed to enhance safety in schools, foster a secure educational environment, and improve relationships between students and law enforcement.
How many schools in Aiken County do not have a full-time SRO?
Aiken County currently has 15 schools without a full-time School Resource Officer.
What funding has been allocated for SRO positions?
The South Carolina House of Representatives allocated $3.7 million from the requested $21.1 million for SRO funding, which aims to cover 177 schools lacking officers.
What is the goal regarding SROs in South Carolina?
The objective is to have a full-time SRO positioned in every school to boost safety and improve community-police relations.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New SRO Positions | Two additional officers to be filled within 180 days. |
| Current Coverage | One SRO per high school and middle school, with only one elementary school currently having an SRO. |
| Funding Request | Governor requested $21.1 million; only $3.7 million approved. |
| SRO Growth | Increased from 406 in 2018 to 1,106 now across South Carolina. |
| Grant for Aiken | Grant of $346,513 for covering costs at specified schools. |
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: School Safety Officers in Aiken County
- WRDW: Update on School Safety Officers Video
- WJBF: Governor Denied Funds for School Officers
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Resource Officer
- Fox Carolina: Funding Issues for School Officers
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
