Date: Thursday, September 11, 2025
Victoria, B.C. – School Police Liaison Officers (SPLOs) will return to Greater Victoria School District No. 61 (SD61) this month, reinforcing a commitment to student safety and providing proactive support for students and staff.
VicPD has worked collaboratively with all stakeholders to support the Greater Victoria School District’s Safety Plan. Two of the Safety Plan’s objectives are to coordinate safety protocols with local police and fire departments, as well as foster positive, respectful relationships with students, staff, parents, and police.
SPLOs will focus on building positive relationships with students, staff, and families to create a safe and supportive school environment. This may include classroom visits, informal conversations with students, and attendance at school events. Officers will also deliver age-appropriate presentations on important topics like bullying prevention, online safety, healthy relationships, and drug awareness. They will support existing conflict resolution initiatives and peer mediation programs and work closely with school principals and vice principals, counselors, and support staff to proactively identify and address potential issues.
Two highly trained SPLOs will be assigned to SD61 schools this month, with additional officers planned for 2026. Officers have received extensive training in areas including de-escalation techniques, trauma-informed practices, fair and impartial policing, Indigenous awareness, and culturally safe practices.
“The safety and well-being of our students is paramount,” said Chief Fiona Wilson. “This program is not about policing in schools; it is about building trust, providing support, and ensuring students have access to positive role models and vital resources. These officers are specially trained to understand the unique needs of students and to foster a positive school climate.”
“We are committed to providing a culturally responsive, safe, equitable, and inclusive learning environment for all students and staff,” said Deb Whitten, Superintendent of Schools, Greater Victoria School District. “Strengthening relationships between all Four Houses, schools, police, and community resources allows us to effectively and proactively support students’ and staff well-being.”
“This program represents a commitment to community safety and a proactive approach to supporting our youth,” said Micayla Hayes, Chair of the Victoria and Esquimalt Police Board. “We are confident that these officers, working in partnership with schools and families, will make a positive difference in the lives of our students.”
Constable Gord Magee will be serving as a School Police Liaison Officer for SD61 during the 2025-2026 school year.
Constable Stacey Fuller will be serving as a School Police Liaison Officer for SD61 during the 2025-2026 school year.
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