May 28, 2025
Message about the Board of Education’s motion to create a MOU with the NWPD
The motion passed on May 27 by the New Westminster Board of Education to undertake a memorandum of understanding with the New Westminster Police Department reflects the board’s desire to develop a new relationship between the NWPD and 缅北禁地s. It marks a fresh approach to the relationship between education and policing that is different from, and more comprehensive than, the former Police Liaison Officer Program. The motion uplifts child development, equity, and inclusive education as central tenets in a desire for a fulsome partnership between the district and NWPD.
The shape of that partnership with the NWPD will come about through work conducted by district staff with NWPD representatives. A committee of two trustees will also be established to receive updates on progress and provide feedback聽regarding聽alignment with the spirit of the motion. What is clear is that our two very different organizations have deep roots in this community and share a commitment to working together to support all children and youth. Our work will be to construct a memorandum of understanding that re-imagines how our two organizations will form part of a comprehensive system of supports focused on success for every child and youth in our care.
Motion (for reference)
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the New Westminster Board of Education (#40) direct the Superintendent to work with the NWPD and school administrators to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that considers a comprehensive School Safety Partnership Framework.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the framework include:
A review and incorporation of all outstanding elements from the 2021 MOU direction and are grounded in the following values:
- Integrity in partnership.
- Relationship-centered approach.
- Inclusive and responsive & trauma informed training.
- Effective and respectful communication.
- Community accountability & regular reporting processes to assess program effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.
- Spirit of inclusion and equity.
- Transparency.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the Superintendent bring a public report for community feedback to the Board with a FINAL DRAFT memorandum of understanding (MOU) 鈥� including the School Safety Partnership Framework, timeline for implementation, and a cycle of review and reporting regarding the effectiveness of the partnership.
THAT the New Westminster Board of Education (#40) direct the Superintendent to form a sub-committee that includes 2 Trustees selected by the Board of Education that will serve to provide feedback and receive updates on ongoing work towards a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the NWPD.