Husband and wife team join new Sarasota school police force
SARASOTA COUNTY, FL Aug 14 2018 School security is on everyone’s minds as students head back to class. In Sarasota County, Monday marked the official launch of the anticipated district police force. Twelve officers stepped into the district’s elementary schools for the first time. Two of the North Port officers have a special bond.
While veteran police officer Jim McCarrick patrols the halls of Glenallen Elementary School, just five miles up the road at Lamarque Elementary School, his wife Mary does the same.
“We are so excited to be here serving the community of North Port,” Mary said Monday.
The pair moved to Sarasota from Chicago four years ago after they both retired from law enforcement. Together they substitute taught in Sarasota’s schools. Then the announcement came about the district police force.
“She was the one that got us into it,” Jim explained. “She said this sounds like a great job, and I said, ‘ok!'”
So on the first day of school in Sarasota County, they’re both back in uniforms doing what they love most.
“I’ve been on the playground. I’ve been in phys ed, played with the kids,” Mary said. “I’m getting to know the Lamarque Lion community.”
Jim calls it the best of both worlds.
“I’m looking forward to a great year,” he said Monday.
WWSB
