Monroe hires school safety and security officer

At its Nov. 20 meeting, the Monroe Local Schools Board of Education approved the hiring of the district’s first full-time school safety and security officer. Arthur (Art) Brickles, a retired police officer, will serve alongside Monroe’s two existing school resource officers who are employed by the Monroe Police Department.

Brickles, a Monroe resident and retired Butler County sheriff’s deputy, received his Ohio Peace Officer Certification from the Middletown Police Academy and has served in law enforcement for the last 40 years. During his time as a police officer, he received various commendations including two life-saving awards and an award of recognition for his 17 years as a K9 handler.

“District administrators and the school board worked closely with the Monroe police department and existing SROs throughout the process to create the role and select the best candidate for the job,” said Director of Personnel and Business Operations Jesse Catanzaro. “We are grateful to the city of Monroe and our first responders for continuing to be great partners as we strive to maintain a safe school environment.”

Art joins Monroe with glowing recommendations for his professional approach, extensive experience, wealth of training, and desire to serve and support students and staff.

He will have the same schedule as the school calendar and be a visible presence throughout Monroe’s campuses during the school day.

“My position will add an additional layer of safety and security for the students, staff and families in our buildings,” said Brickles. “I look forward to working alongside Monroe’s SROs and earning the trust and respect of our students and staff.”