This year, a new face will patrol our schools

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Liaison: “Communication for establishing and maintaining mutual understanding and cooperation.”

That’s how Webster’s Dictionary defines the word, and that’s exactly what Police Officer Chris Gottfredsen feels he will be responsible for in his new position.

Gottfredsen will be the new school liaison officer starting Tuesday, Sept. 2. Though his predecessor Officer Doug Rudesill left some big shoes to fill, Gottfredsen said he’s sure he’ll be the perfect fit.

The first year, he said, will likely be challenging, but once he gets to know the people and the system he’ll fit right in.

His responsibilities will be different from what they were during his 10 years as a patrol officer, but safety is still number one.

“The most important thing is the safety of the staff and the students,” he said.

He also said he hopes to make new friendships and encouraged anyone to approach him on any topic. He said it doesn’t matter to him if it’s a professional concern, a student’s problem, a personal comment or a simple introduction.

It’s an important post for a police officer, and Gottfredsen is sure he’s the right choice.

“You need the right person in there,” Gottfredsen said. “It’s about how many kids lives can you change.”

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