Horne Urges Phoenix Union to Reevaluate Armed Officers’ Ban at Two Campuses

By Matthew Holloway |

Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne expressed strong disapproval of the Phoenix Union High School District (PXU) governing board’s recent decision to deny a critical request from two high schools for armed security officers. Horne labeled this choice an “error” that jeopardizes the safety of students and staff.

During a press conference, Horne was accompanied by current and former PXU educators as he urged the board to reassess its decision regarding the deployment of armed officers at Betty Fairfax and Carl Hayden High Schools. “The governing board’s rejection disregards the recommendations of its own administrators and principals,” he stated. “Those present on campus daily understand the escalating safety concerns far better than board members.”

Horne emphasized the severe implications of inaction, warning, “If an armed attacker were to harm students, parents would hold the responsible parties accountable for failing to provide adequate protection.”

In March, a narrow 5-2 vote by the board turned down state funding meant to position a police officer for shared deployment between the two schools, despite the financial backing being available until June 2026. Currently, neither school has any assigned officer on its campus.

The historical context includes student protests in 2020 against the presence of police on campuses. Consequently, the district opted not to renew its contract with the Phoenix Police Department but has recently introduced School Resource Officers (SROs) in 2023. Presently, only two SROs serve PXU full-time, alongside four off-duty law enforcement officers acting as “school safety officers.”

Horne made a “respectful request” for the PXU Governing Board to reconsider its position, urging a focus on the safety of both educators and students. He was backed at the conference by retired teacher Mark Williams, National Board-Certified Teacher Susan Groff, and M. Ed. Pamela Kelley, who voiced their concerns about existing security measures.

Williams pointed out, “Superintendent Horne is advocating for safety amidst rising violence. It’s essential to question why the board acquiesces to a small, vocal minority that opposes police presence.”

Groff added, “I’ve witnessed the positive influence of SROs during my career. Their presence not only boosts safety but cultivates trust between students and staff.”

Kelley went further, advocating for improved security measures across all PXU schools: “We need metal detectors and the presence of SROs to ensure the safety and security of students, staff, and visitors.”

Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.