The role of School Resource Officers (SROs) has become more prevalent in recent years. According to a 2023 study, last year, there were 346 school shooting incidents across the country. With the rise of school shootings and intruder incidents, it is essential to understand the role of SROs and how they can enhance school security.
SROs are sworn law enforcement officers responsible for school safety and crime prevention. A local police department, sheriff’s agency, or school system typically employs SROs who work closely with school administrators to create a safer environment. Below are three ways SROs enhance a school’s safety and security.
Law Enforcement Presence and Deterrence
According to a 2018 report, the number of school resource officers has exploded. In 2013, about 30 percent of schools had one, compared to 1 percent in 1975. One of the primary functions of school resource officers is to provide a visible law enforcement presence on school campuses. SROs may make rounds during classroom changes, drop off and pickup, and large events so they are seen and readily available.
This presence deters potential threats such as intruders or individuals intending harm to students or faculty. Knowing that trained law enforcement officers are on-site can dissuade individuals from engaging in criminal activities on school grounds.
Building Positive Relationships
SROs often work closely with students, teachers, and administrators to build positive relationships within the school community. SROs may be available to talk in person with students during assemblies, career days, and sporting events. By interacting with students in non-threatening and approachable ways, SROs can establish trust and rapport.
“Let students know that you are there not only to protect them but also to help them in any way you can,” stated Jerry Aponte, Chief Training Officer at Active Defender and an SRO for 12 years. “Two high school students told me they became Law Enforcement Officers after graduation because of my positive relationship with them.”
This trust can encourage students to report safety concerns or suspicious behavior to the SRO, fostering a safer school environment. Additionally, SROs can provide mentorship, guidance, and support to students, helping to address underlying issues that may contribute to safety concerns.
Training and Emergency Preparedness
SROs typically receive specialized training in school safety and crisis intervention techniques. The National Association of School Resource Officers (NASR) provides several training courses from Basic SRO to School Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED.)
SROs can collaborate with school staff to develop and implement emergency response plans, conduct safety drills, and provide training sessions for students and faculty on active shooter scenarios, conflict resolution, and substance abuse prevention. By equipping school communities with the knowledge and skills to respond effectively to emergencies, SROs help enhance overall safety and security within schools.
Who is Active Defender?
Active Defender’s School Safety Platform revolutionizes emergency alerting and communication and provides the most comprehensive situational awareness available during a crisis. With Active Defender, ALL staff can immediately know WHAT the threat is, WHERE it is, understand WHAT TO DO, and REPORT their STATUS on a custom, dynamic campus map on their mobile device.
To learn more, visit Active Defender or take the first step in enhancing your school’s safety today by booking an interactive demo!