How Do Police Work With Marlborough Schools?

Communication and a formal agreement form the basis for a good working relationship between Marlborough's Schools and the Police Department, according to Police Chief Mark Leonard.

“Most of the incidents are relatively minor ... each thing is somewhat unique," he said before explaining that police will investigate whether the incident warrants a criminal complaint and the school will deal with the matter through their channels.

The schools and the police department have a formal contract, that the District Attorney's Office also weighs in on, in order to lay out the exact relationship between the two entities. It spells out exactly what must be reported to the police by school officials and vice versa, said Chief Leonard.

“It makes sure everyone is on the same page about what should be reported," he said.

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That communication is key when it comes to events that may have occurred outside of school, but come to light while students are at school. Sometimes this means issues with a student's safety at home.

"Teachers and police officers are mandatory reporters when it comes to a neglect situation,” said Chief Leonard.

Other issues that police respond to do occur at schools, he said. Any type of assault, threats and any weapons violation must be reported to the police department. These, along with physical conflicts such as students pushing or shoving each other, are the issues that most commonly arise. Occasionally police will be called because of a drug issue, said the chief.

“We have a very good relationship with the schools," he said. "We look at it from our end and they look at it from their end."

Most of these have ended far before the police get to the school. Police will take reports and follow up with each case as it warrants, said Chief Leonard.