A NEW open form of communication has been initiated between local police and schools, to assist in the care and education of Whitsunday kids.

On Friday, August 29, police officers from the Whitsunday station conducted an important meeting with the principals of the Cannonvale State School and Whitsunday Christian School under the provisions of the police 'Adopt a School' and 'Adopt a Cop' programs.

Officer in Charge of the Whitsunday Police Station, Acting Senior Sergeant Brad Teys, said items discussed included an increased police presence in every aspect of each school's processes, including truancy, absenteeism and the behaviour of students before, during and after school, including on the relevant buses. Act, Snr Sgt Teys said police attendance at important school events alongside students was also discussed.

"In addition, monitoring the behaviour of parents/guardians who attend the school [was discussed, plus] monitoring parking, public nuisance and generally ensuring there is adherence to an acceptable code of conduct whilst present at the school and when engaging teachers and administration alike," he said.

Whitsunday Christian College principal, Nathan McDonald, said he walked away from the meeting extremely encouraged by the desire of Whitsunday Police to be proactive in addressing issues relating to children and young people in local schools.

"The Adopt-a-Cop program was discussed at length and I am very happy that Whitsunday Christian College will be supported by our own Adopt-a-Cop who will be visiting the College at various times, building a positive relationship with our students and speaking on issues that are pertinent to them," he said.

"It was great to discover at the meeting that our local police officers are passionate about having our students in school every day and will be working closely with our schools in addressing issues such as truancy." Act Snr Sgt Teys said a formal meeting between police and schools would now be conducted quarterly.