About the Program

Originally funded by a grant, this program works in conjunction with the education system to address a myriad of issues facing the high school population and provides for a full-time School Resource Officer (SRO). The Board of Education and the Police Department share the annual cost of this program.

Duties & Activities

• Strengthen the active partnerships among the Police Department, School System, Judicial System and other social and criminal justice agencies.
• Educate faculty and students about the criminal justice system, particularly law enforcement, e.g., reasonable suspicion, probable cause, search and seizure, as well as the legal restrictions on police, school administrators and faculty.
• Interact with students, high school faculty and staff to provide increased security and safety in the learning environment.
• Investigate all criminal activity occurring on or adjacent to school property.
• Proactively preclude enforcement action through collaboration with students, parents or guardians and school and community resources.
• Take enforcement action when necessary.
• Serve as a resource for students, parents and teachers for referral services on an individual basis in the areas of substance abuse, behavioral problems, domestic violence and sexual abuse.
• Serve in an advisory capacity on the Youth-Adult Council.
• Serve as a resource in topical areas such as substance abuse, anger management, conflict resolution and date rape.
• Serve as a role model and mentor for all students.
• Broaden the SRO’s exposure within the public school system.
• SRO provides Student Mediation.