Madison police will end school safety program

MADISON, Wis. — Madison police will end a school safety program because of budget constraints.

Officers have taught the safety classes in the Madison School District and five private schools for the last 15 years. About 3,000 students in the fourth or fifth grade are taught each year about the dangers of drugs, alcohol and gangs and about internet safety and how to deal with bullying.

The State Journal reports Madison Police Chief Mike Koval says a staffing shortage in the patrol division means he no longer can spare the four officers to teach the class.

School district spokeswoman Rachel Strauch-Nelson educators are hoping the program can be revived at some point.

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