By Kiera Morgan

After many years of serving as the School Resource officer for Taft 7-12, Officer Escalante has been promoted to patrol Sergeant with the Lincoln City police department. As a result of the promotion however he is no longer going to be the school resource officer. On Friday January 13th the school held a special farewell assembly to say goodbye. The students put together a video montage for him and presented him with a plaque that was made by the students in wood shop. According to Lt. Palmer with Lincoln City police they are currently working to identify another officer who can take over as the school resource officer for Lincoln City schools. “The School Resource Officer is an extremely valuable member of our department and a resource that we don’t think we can do without.”

“We are working to identify a new School Resource officer and it will take a few months to go through the process and get them the necessary training in order to continue with the DARE program.” Lt Palmer added “Our primary mission is to keep a uniformed presence in the schools and work closely with the kids and school administration. They attend extra curricular activities and school dances. The officer also works to educate about school bullying issues, truancy and any other issues that may arise and ensure a good connection with the community and the police department.” Lt. Palmer said “Officer Escalante has had quite an impact on students and will be missed. A new school resource officer will be announced soon.