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Chagrin Falls Schools Welcomes Officer Steffey as New School Safety Officer
Dear Chagrin Falls School Community,
I am thrilled to share some exciting news with you all as we continue our journey of growth and collaboration within the Chagrin Falls School District. It is my pleasure to announce the addition of Officer James Steffey as our new School Safety Officer (SSO) at Chagrin Falls Intermediate School. Officer Steffey’s arrival marks another important step in our ongoing commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment where our students can thrive.
The selection of Officer Steffey was the result of a meticulous process led by the Chagrin Falls Police Department, in close cooperation with our District. Chief Dacek and her team, alongside representatives from our school, carefully evaluated candidates to find the best fit for this vital role. What stood out about Officer Steffey were his exceptional qualifications and standout experience.
During the final interviews, Officer Steffey's tenure in law enforcement and his deep understanding of the unique dynamics of school settings left a lasting impression. His demonstrated ability to navigate complex situations with professionalism, and his commitment to fostering positive relationships within our community, resonated strongly with our district's values and objectives.
Officer Steffey’s appointment underscores our District’s dedication to prioritizing safety and providing a supportive environment for students. As part of his role, Officer Steffey will maintain a visible presence across the campus, ensuring the safety and security of our school grounds.
In addition to his law enforcement duties, Officer Steffey will serve as a liaison between school personnel and law enforcement agencies, facilitating the provision of necessary resources to ensure the safety and security of our school community. His primary focus remains on creating a safe and supportive environment conducive to high quality learning experiences.
As we welcome Officer Steffey to our team, let us continue to connect, create, and challenge one another, fostering a sense of unity and growth within our Chagrin Falls community. Together, we can ensure that every student and staff member feels safe, supported, and empowered to reach their fullest potential.
In addition, I’d like to thank Officer K (Michael Kleinknecht). He has been such an asset as the School Security Officer at Gurney Elementary. Our school community has embraced him as a member of the staff and he truly has made a difference in the overall culture of the building.
Warm regards,
Jennifer Penczarski, Ed.D.
Superintendent, Chagrin Falls Exempted Village Schools
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