FALL RIVER – After an extensive search process, the Diocese of Fall River and Catholic Schools Office are proud to announce that Christine Leeman (in photo) has been appointed to the newly created position of School Resource Officer.

The current environment and challenges facing schools across the country necessitate a seasoned professional in criminal justice to oversee the safety and security of all 19 Catholic schools in the Diocese.  A key focus of this new role is to work closely with school leaders and other personnel to provide for a safe school environment.  In addition, she will serve as a liaison between police departments and the Catholic schools.

Previously, as the Manager of Public Safety Education for the Bristol County Sheriff’s Office, Leeman was responsible for outreach to all schools in Bristol County, including public, Catholic, private, and charter schools, educating students and faculty on topics such as bullying, harassment, situational awareness, and the dangers of social media.  Within one year of launching this program, she presented the above topics to well over 1,500 students, faculty and parents.  Her contact with the community was not only with students but also included the elderly of Bristol County, as she participated in social events offered by the department and provided education on scam awareness.

Superintendent Daniel S. Roy said, “Christine Leeman comes to the Diocese at a time of national concern with school safety.  Her dedication to the safety of the community is evident through her direct connection between the local schools and law enforcement, including the launch of a successful bullying program for both students and families.  The Diocese of Fall River is blessed to have a professional of her caliber fostering a safe and healthy environment for our schools.”

“With my experience at the Bristol County Sheriff’s Office, in addition to the training I’ve received as a Deputy Sheriff since 2016, I am well versed in de-escalation, crisis intervention, school safety, and the best practices in solving matters with confidentiality and compassion,” Leeman said.  “I also relate well with students and families to promote morals and values in a Catholic educational environment.  This new role is perfectly aligned with my passion for student health and wellness in addition to my belief that students need to be well rounded spiritually and academically.”

Leeman is married to her husband of three years, and they are the proud parents of a one-year old daughter.  The Leeman family are members of St. Joseph Parish in Fairhaven.

About the Catholic Schools Alliance

The Catholic Schools Alliance comprises administrators, teachers, staff, parents, and clergy joined in partnership to educate the children of the Diocese of Fall River in Catholic faith and values. Our schools have a demanding educational culture that helps students reach their God-given potential across the academic spectrum. With an emphasis on love of others through their service and respect, we prepare students to meet the challenges of today’s diverse world and become meaningful contributors to society by helping to rebuild a culture of life and love.  For more information, please go to www.RediscoverCatholicSchools.org.

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The Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D.
The Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D.
The Bishop of Fall River