By Jennifer Ersalesi
Upon Detective Al Anderson's retirement at the end of this month, Detective Frank Inglese will take over as the Rutherford School District's School Resource Officer (SRO). This is Rutherford took some time to learn about Detective Inglese and help introduce him as he takes on this new role.
TIR: How long have you been a part of the Rutherford Police Department?
Frank Inglese: This month I began my 11th year. It is truly an understatement to say that ten years have passed in a blink of an eye.
Principal Frank Morano told TIR, "I have known Det. Inglese for many years in a different role. I am excited to work closely with him in his new role as school resource officer. Det. Inglese has been shadowing Det. Anderson and I noticed immediately that he will be fantastic at this position. His communication skills with students and parents and his passion for his job will make this transition seamless."
TIR: What do you enjoy most about being part of the RPD?
FI: As a lifelong resident of Rutherford one of my greatest enjoyments is the ability to give back to the community that fostered my upbringing. Whether it is by responding to an emergency call or marching in our town parade nothing is better than being able to serve and protect.
TIR: You were recently assigned as the School Resource Officer for the Rutherford Public Schools. What about this position interested you and what are you most excited about as you start this new position?
FI: I am thrilled to have been assigned by Chief Russo to the position of SRO. What interests me the most is being part of our school community, this gives me firsthand opportunity to help make a difference in Rutherford’s youth while keeping them safe. Additionally, I’m excited to take part in the schools’ daily activities which will allow me to be highly visible, interactive, and communicate with the students and staff.
"I anticipate this transition of the Rutherford Police Department's School Resource Officer to be seamless. I had known for some time now that Detective Anderson was setting his sights for retirement for this month, and knowing that, began the process of establishing Detective Inglese as our next SRO many months ago so he could be afforded time with Det. Anderson. Detective Inglese is a perfect fit for this position because he has a true desire to be the best he can in all he does. He enjoys dealing with the juvenile aspects of this job, and with his experience as a Detective, will prove to be a well-rounded person to be in our schools. I am looking forward to seeing how Detective Inglese personalizes this position. I also want to thank Superintendent Jack Hurley and his principals and staff for there support of our decision. I am happy that our students will get to interact with Detective Inglese as our new SRO," Chief John Russo told TIR.
TIR: Can you tell us about the training you have received to prepare you to become the School Resource Officer?
FI: I have attended multiple trainings and classes including a certification from the New Jersey Association of School Resource Officers. Along with that, my professional and personal life experiences are significant factors to have prepared me for this position.
TIR: School safety is obviously very important in any community and as families learn more about school violence throughout the country they are fearful about their own children’s safety. As the SRO, how will help educate and reassure families and students who are concerned about safety in our schools?
FI: It is vital that communities and families be aware of their surroundings. Chief Russo has prioritized school safety within the police department by providing consistent trainings to all officers. Rutherford PD and the Board of Education communicate closely with any concerns on a constant basis. I have children of my own and just like for any other family, our children's safety is a top priority.
TIR: When will you officially start this new position as Rutherford’s School Resource Officer?
FI: I will begin the position in February.
"We are looking forward to continuing the strong partnership between the schools and the Rutherford Police as we welcome Det. Inglese as the new School Resource Officer. He has big shoes to fill as Det. Al Anderson has made so many valuable contributions to our schools and our community, but I know the Det. Inglese will build the same type of relationships with students and staff to help keep our schools a safe learning environment, " explained Superintendent Jack Hurley.
TIR: Anything you wish to add?
FI: I want to thank Detective Al Anderson for building such a strong relationship with the Board of Education and our school community for the past twenty years. I wish him all the best in his retirement.
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