The Orono School District welcomes the new police liaison, Officer Tony White, for this year, as former police liaison, officer Susan Schultz, went back to night patrol.

White comes to the district with lots of experience. “I’ve been with the Orono Police Department for 10 years now. In that time, I’ve worked seven years on patrol and the other three in the West Metro Drug Force” Officer White said.

As well as being Orono’s liaison, White’s other duties at the police department include alcohol and tobacco compliances. He is also a firearms instructor and the assistant team lead for the Lake Minnetonka Swat Team.

Orono’s previous police liaison informed Officer White about the thefts that occurred first semester.

“As a liaison, I am a buffer between the school issues and any law enforcement issue. I also check the parking lots and make my rounds between the schools. In the high school, I sit in on snack break and some of the lunches.”

“Also, in the morning, I try to be visible when I am around,” Officer White said. White will also be at all sporting events against rivals, and especially football games.

Aside from his duty as police liaison, White has a wife, Joy, and two kids: Bennett who is six and Brooks who is three. He enjoys hunting, fishing, staying active, and attending sporting events.

“I feel like the new kid coming into Orono. The staff ha[ve] been very welcoming and have been helping me with the transition,” Officer White said.

“Students don’t need to be shy or afraid, I encourage them to come up and talk to me. Talk to me about anything: sports, music, anything,” Officer White said.

Officer White is thinking about setting up a Juvenile Citizens Academy at Orono. “One night a week, we would cover different topics like DWI’s, domestic disturbances, traffic stops, and other police topics,” Officer White said.

“Then if students choose to, we can set up ride-alongs. It’s a good way for them to see our point of view and the things that we, as police officers, do.”

“Since I’ve been working with the school it has been a smooth transition into my new position. I’m looking forward [to] the rest of the year and getting to know the students.”