Broward Schools Rescind SRO Decision After Backlash, Reopen Talks With Margate

by Sharon Aron Baron April 22, 2026

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Commissioner Arlene Schwartz and Vice Mayor Anthony Caggiano with Margate Elementary SRO Anthony Careccia. {David Volz}

The fate of School Resource Officers in Margate took a sudden turn this week after Broward County Public Schools reversed course on its earlier decision to end its agreement with the city.

In a new letter dated April 22, Broward Schools Police Chief Kevin Nosowicz formally notified city officials that the district is rescinding its prior correspondence regarding proposed changes to School Resource Officer (SRO) services.

The letter effectively walks back the district’s April 10 notice, which stated it would no longer contract with the City of Margate for SRO services beginning Aug. 10, 2026—a decision that sparked strong objections from city leaders and concern from residents.

“Please accept this letter as formal notice that Broward County Public Schools is rescinding its prior correspondence regarding proposed changes to School Resource Officer services dated 4/10/2026,” Nosowicz wrote.

The district added that it “remains interested in working collaboratively and in good faith toward mutually agreeable terms,” signaling a willingness to return to negotiations with the city.

The original decision drew criticism from Margate officials, who said the move was made without consultation and raised concerns about student safety and financial impacts.

City leaders, including Mayor Antonio Arserio and members of the commission, had pushed for answers after learning the district planned to eliminate the longstanding partnership. Officials also questioned how school safety would be maintained without city police officers on campus.

The potential loss of SROs also threatened to impact officers like Margate Elementary’s Officer Anthony Careccia, who has built strong relationships with students and staff through programs like D.A.R.E.

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