Bartlesville Public Schools has received a $60,000 donation from the Truity Education Foundation to support the district’s School Resource Officer (SRO) program and Bruins on the Run, an after-school running and mentoring program for fifth-grade students.
Over the past two years, Bartlesville Public Schools has expanded its investment in campus safety by adding seven additional School Resource Officers. Each elementary and middle school is assigned one SRO, and two officers serve at Bartlesville High School. These ten officers work daily to help maintain safe learning environments while building positive relationships with students.
SROs are trained and employed by the Bartlesville Police Department and are assigned to serve within the district. Bartlesville Public Schools funds approximately 75 percent of each officer’s salary, with the remaining 25 percent covered by the police department. Community partnerships like the BPS Foundation play an important role in sustaining the program.
Beyond maintaining safety and enforcing the law, SROs serve as mentors and trusted adults for students. They provide guidance and lead age-appropriate discussions on topics such as internet safety, personal responsibility, safe driving, and understanding due process. Their presence supports a proactive approach to school safety that prioritizes relationship-building and open communication.
The donation will also support Bruins on the Run, an after-school program that connects fifth-grade students with teacher mentors during the fall and spring semesters. Students train together, build positive habits, and participate in local races. The Bartlesville Public Schools Foundation covers program costs, including running shoes and race registration fees. Through consistent mentorship and goal-setting, students develop commitment and perseverance—skills that support long-term academic success and graduation outcomes.
Bartlesville Public Schools appreciates the continued investment of the Truity Education Foundation and its commitment to student safety, well-being, and character development. Community members interested in supporting Bartlesville Public Schools Foundation programs may visit bpsfoundation.org for more information.