The school shootings that claimed the lives of 26 students and teachers in Connecticut are still reverberating in the national consciousness.

Manteca police Lt. Tony Souza says his department started a program this week in which two reserve officers visit the district's 13 elementary campuses whenever school is in session.

SOUZA: "And also to head off any possible safety things and if we get any information on some type of plot, a student that has made threats, we will look into that so that prevention can be a component."

Brock Elliot Elementary has 800 students and Principal Debbie Ruger is happy to see the officers on campus.

RUGER: "I know the staff in general is quite excited and welcoming the officers onto campus, and I can guess it will have the same effect with students and parents as well."

The police are hoping  local service clubs  will contribute to the program so city funds won't be used.