The presence of police figures in educational environments has once again generated debate. While other communities opt for surveillance models, the Canary Islands are consolidating a different approach, focused on prevention and support.
This initiative, which began 13 years ago in Ingenio, Gran Canaria, has evolved into the Tutor Agent program. Its main objective is to identify challenges in classrooms early to prevent them from escalating into more serious situations, such as school bullying or violence.
“"We generate some distrust among students. The younger ones think we are the 'boogeyman,' that we take them away; the older ones, that we are oppressors, disciplinarians. But in the end, with daily interaction, when you listen to them, you go from being a police officer to a trusted police officer."
Sources from the Ministry of Education have emphasized that the Canarian model differs from other proposals, prioritizing support for prevention through talks, family counseling, and timely intervention at the request of centers or families, either to mediate or reinforce projects.
Currently, the program is implemented in five municipalities across the islands: La Orotava and Puerto de la Cruz in Tenerife; Ingenio in Gran Canaria; El Rosario in Fuerteventura; and Arrecife in Lanzarote. The proposal, originally from the Balearic Islands, has proven effective in protecting minors and safeguarding their rights.
“"The relationship we maintain with the tutor agent is very close. He guides us and meets with us. Despite not having a full-time dedication, he answers any questions we have. He has come to the institute to give talks on school bullying or vaping prevention, which is very important, and has helped us with quite delicate issues."
The Federation of Ampas of Gran Canaria (FAPA Galdós) has positively evaluated the program, highlighting the specialized training of the agents and their focus on anticipation, mediation, and coordination with educational centers.
