Thanks to a grant from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD), the Kennett Consolidated School District’s (KCSD) partnership with local police is stronger than ever.
In addition to Kennett High School (KHS) and the Mary D. Lang Kindergarten Center’s School Resource Officer, KCSD has recently welcomed a School Police Officer to Kennett Middle School (KMS), Bancroft Elementary School and New Garden Elementary School.
“When we were presented with this opportunity, we leapt at it,” reflected KCSD Superintendent Dr. Dusty Blakey. “The grant not only allows us to continue keeping our focus on student safety at the forefront, but also further strengthens our collaboration with the first responders in our community. We need everyone’s help.”
A familiar face from the Southern Chester County Regional Police Department, Officer Mario Raimato will be a dedicated resource to KMS, Bancroft and New Garden.
“I am here to build bridges,” he said of his job. “I want young people to know that they should not be afraid of the police. We are their protectors, somewhere safe to turn to if they are lost or need help.”
After greeting students, Raimato will conduct regular checks of the doors, hallways and bathrooms at all three schools.
A graduate of Kennett High School himself, Raimato earned his Bachelor’s Degree from West Chester University and returned to the KCSD community as an officer and DARE Instructor. He celebrates his 30th anniversary in law enforcement this year.
KCSD continues to collaborate with the Kennett Township Police Department to develop a School Police Officer role for Greenwood Elementary School.
Veteran KHS and Mary D. Lang School Resource Officer JD Boyer warmly welcomes his counterparts to what he calls the best job he’s ever had.
“It’s going to sound funny, but I truly love the students. I accept them for all that they are– including all of their attitudes, both positive and negative. They aren’t afraid to show me that they are real people. I love that every day is different. And I love that every day is an opportunity to break down barriers and build better relationships with our youth.”
Boyer was recently named the Borough of Kennett Square Police Department’s Officer of the Year.
For KCSD, partnerships with its first responders are a point of pride. The District convenes monthly meetings and annual trainings with emergency services, fire and police departments from all of its municipalities.
Those with questions are invited to contact KCSD Communications Specialist Nikki Laws at nlaws@kcsd.org or (610) 444-6646.