Bridgewater Police Increase Patrols, Share Back To School Safety Tips

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Thousands of students, teachers, and staff returned to classrooms and schools across Bridgewater and Raritan on Tuesday after summer vacation.

Last week, the nation faced the tragedy of two children being killed and 17 others were injured on Aug. 27 when a gunman opened fire during an all-school Mass at Annunciation Catholic School in south Minneapolis.

Following that event, Bridgewater Township Police Chief John Mitzak told Patch that while the police department is taking precautions, it is the same protocols they implement during the beginning of every school year.

"Our protocols remain consistent year after year. Regardless of events occurring elsewhere in the country, we alwaysimplement increased patrols whenever school is in session," said Mitzak. "The safety of our students, staff, and community is our top priority, and we take proactive measures to ensure a secure environment at all times."

For the 2025-26 school year, Police Officer Arthur Akins Jr. returned for his second year as a School Resource Officer(SRO).

Additionally, Officer Mike Thomsen started his first year as an SRO in Bridgewater and brings five years of SRO experience from his previous department.

In addition to the SROs, uniformed patrol officers will be conducting daily school checks and walk-throughs.

As school resumes, police remind residents:

• Expect heavier traffic throughout the Township
• Allow extra time for your morning commute
• Drive cautiously as students and parents walk or bike to school
• Be patient with school buses - passing a stopped bus is both extremely dangerous and a costly violation

"The Bridgewater Township Police Department wishes our community a safe, happy, and healthy school year!" said Bridgewater Police Department - NJ.

Related: Back To School: Bridgewater-Raritan 2025-26 School Calendar

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