Loudoun School Board Rejects SRO Expansion for Elementary Schools Despite Sheriff Data

The board, which includes members Ross Svenson, Anne Donohue, and additional representatives from the district’s regions, conducted citizen participation. Speakers stressed vulnerabilities of young students, noting their limited ability to conceal themselves or contact emergency services independently. Sheriff’s responses can be hindered by traffic conditions.

Sheriff records show over 5,000 instances in three years where SROs from middle and high schools were reassigned to elementary incidents. The proposal suggests dedicated SROs covering three to four elementary schools each, preserving coverage elsewhere.

In a 5-3-1 vote, the board declined to endorse funding the expansion for FY27, opting for further Memorandum of Understanding discussions. The decision advances to the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors for budget approval.

Sheriff’s communications preceded the meeting, noting frequent elementary law enforcement needs absent on-site SROs. The district operates 52 elementary schools amid ongoing safety dialogues.

Public reaction varied, with some highlighting daily disruptions equivalent to 181 school days. Others referenced national trends in school security. The board’s action follows prior safety concerns in the district.

Board summaries confirm the session focused on recommendations. Community sign-ups enabled input. Supervisors will deliberate funding soon.

This development occurs as Virginia localities address resource allocation. Elementary focus responds to specific call volumes and incident escalations.

Stakeholders await supervisors’ stance, with potential impacts on 2026-2027 operations.

Email the Loudoun County School Board:
April Chandler, april.chandler@lcps.org,
Anne Donohue, anne.donohue@lcps.org,
Deana Griffiths, deana.griffiths@lcps.org,
Ross Svenson, ross.stevenson@lcps.org,
Kari LaBell, kari.labell@lcps.org,
Jon Pepper, jonathon.pepper@lcps.org,
Lauren Shernoff, lauren.shernoff@lcps.org,
Sumera Rashid, sumera.rashid@lcps.org,
Amy Riccardi, amy.riccardi@lcps.org,

Email the Board of Supervisors at:
Phyllis J. Randall (Chair, At-Large) – Phyllis.Randall@loudoun.gov,
Michael R. Turner (Vice Chair, Ashburn District) – Mike.Turner@loudoun.gov,
Juli E. Briskman (Algonkian District) – Juli.Briskman@loudoun.gov,
Sylvia R. Glass (Broad Run District) – Sylvia.Glass@loudoun.gov,
Caleb Kershner (Catoctin District) – caleb.kershner@loudoun.gov,
Matthew F. Letourneau (Dulles District) – Matt.Letourneau@loudoun.gov,
Kristen C. Umstattd (Leesburg District) – Kristen.Umstattd@loudoun.gov,
Laura A. TeKrony (Little River District) – Laura.TeKrony@loudoun.gov,
Koran Saines (Sterling District) – Koran.Saines@loudoun.gov