NEWPORT BEACH
Despite concerns from one parent that the board is contributing to a “prison-like” atmosphere on campus, Newport-Mesa Unified School District board members voted 7 to 0 this week to pay for half the salaries of two Newport Beach police officers who will be stationed at Corona del Mar High School, Newport Harbor High School and Ensign Middle School.
Board members said the officers will make schools safer and help students have a better relationship with the police. Newport Beach Police Chief Robert J. McDonell came to the meeting and spoke highly of the program, which will cost the district about $70,000 a year, after an initial investment of about $12,000. The officers will start in February.
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