Arkport Central School District

In the upcoming school year, the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office will have a satellite office in the Arkport school building. The office will be located inside the front vestibule, with a window looking into the school's entrance. Designed only for clerical work, the office will not be utilized for detaining any potential suspects.

As the district explores avenues to introduce a full-time school resource officer (SRO), the satellite office aims to instill a sense of security and reassurance among students and staff alike. 

“The school district is looking forward to the upcoming partnership with the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office,” said Superintendent Jesse Harper. “Arkport has an unwavering commitment to safety and we are always looking for ways to improve.” 

The office will serve as a critical link between law enforcement and the school environment, fostering positive relationships between students, staff, and the officers. Their presence will enhance safety and security measures, while having a patrol car visible from the road will deter potential threats and promote a sense of security among the school community. 

“We hope that having our deputies in the building will dispel any negative perceptions of law enforcement,” said Steuben County's Undersheriff John D. McNelis. “The goal is to be proactive and form positive relationships with the Arkport community. We look forward to instilling a peace of mind while the students and staff are at school,” he added.  

“We are fortunate to continue to build on our cooperative relationship with the Arkport Central School District and Superintendent Harper,” said Sheriff Allard. “I believe the satellite office will only improve our efforts in public safety for the district,” he added.