The school district's Security and Safety Committee thanked Newtown Police Department Captain Joe Rios for his efforts with the group at its meeting on Thursday, September 8.as previously reported by The Newtown Bee. His last day of work in Newtown is September 22.

Capt Rios is retiring as a town police officer to take a position with the Norwalk Public School System, where, as a civilian, he will oversee safety and preparedness for the public schools,

Superintendent of Schools Joseph V. Erardi, Jr, said he thinks of "trust, integrity, honesty, and dignity" when he thinks of Capt Rios.

The support Capt Rios has offered in his role on the committee, Dr Erardi said, is unprecedented in what he has offered to the superintendent's office, to the school board, to the district administrative team, "and more importantly, to the more than 4,500 students."

The news of Capt Rios's new position, Dr Erardi continued, is an extraordinary loss for the Newtown Public Schools and community, "and an opportunity for me to appropriately and publicly say thank you to you," he told Capt Rios at the meeting.

Board of Education Vice Chair Michelle Ku said in the three years she has served on the committee she has grown to respect everything Capt Rios has offered.

"On behalf of the Board of Education, we will miss you greatly, and we wish you the best of luck," said Ms Ku. "Thank you very much for all you have done."

Sharing his thanks, Newtown Public Schools Director of Security Mark Pompano said he looks forward to being able to repay Capt Rios for his guidance over the years as Capt Rios looks to the start of his career overseeing safety and preparedness for the public schools in Norwalk.

Ms Ku and school board member John Vouros presented Capt Rios with a certificate to thank him for his efforts on the committee.

"We will miss you tremendously and thank you for everything you have done for the children," Mr Vouros said.

"You are very welcome," Capt Rios responded.