What are the Duties of a School Resource Officer?

School Resource Officers are becoming increasingly prevalent in school districts across the country. This role has not always existed, although many local police departments had a history of checking in on the schools in their area. The shooting at Columbine, followed by an increasing number of episodes of school violence and massacres, highlighted the need for more security at public schools. 

Public school districts began partnering with local precincts to station an armed officer at the school in case of emergencies. What are the duties of a school resource officer? Here’s what to know about this public safety role. 

School Resource Officer: An In-Demand Public Safety Role

There were more than 23,000 school resource officers protecting U.S. schools in 2019, which is likely much higher. As the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) explains, this role should not be misidentified as a security guard. School Resource Officers are armed and sworn to protect the school they serve. 

More than 40 percent of schools incorporate a full-time School Resource Officer. These officers become respected and trusted members of the school community. Many Districts are adding these officers to their staff, as issues between students escalate. While school districts in the District of Columbia sought to remove these positions, USA Today reported that D.C.’s city council members wanted to reverse that move. The reason? Increased fights and other violence in schools. 

What Is An SRO? The Duties Explained

An SRO is an acronym that refers to a School Resource Officer. Typically, schools refer to their officers as the SROs.

While SROs protect the school and help mitigate any acts of violence, they primarily serve an educational role and provide mentorship for students. SROs often train to work with children and teens, and all who serve in schools understand the importance of creating an environment where students feel safe and trust their SRO.  

Some SROs partner with elementary schools to facilitate the D.A.R.E. program or other outreach programs for students.

SRO Training: How To Become A School Resource Officer

To become a School Resource Officer (SRO), applicants must serve as a member of law enforcement. This means that all applicants must have received training at a police academy. NASRO recommends that all SRO applicants serve three years (at least) in law enforcement working a street beat before working as a School Resource Officer. NASRO also recommends that applicants participate in specialized training in working with children and teens. NASRO offers a 40-hour basic training course for all SROs. 

How Can An SRO Help A School?

SROs serve their school partner as a trusted resource for mentorship and safety. A School Resource Officer helps students feel safer and protected; SROs are trained to respond to active shooters and understand how to de-escalate a violent situation.

Most importantly, though, all SROs offer mentorship and educational resources for all students. Some lead D.A.R.E. programs that teach young elementary students about the dangers of drugs and alcohol. SROs in secondary schools may speak about peer pressure, drinking and driving, or lead discussions on other safety topics.

Many SROs become trusted resources for students. Many SROs understand the importance of reaching out to all students, helping them feel seen, heard, and included. 

Find SRO Jobs

If you enjoy working around teens and children, have great communication skills, and desire an experience in law enforcement that focuses on mentorship, this role could be the career for you! The Missouri Public Safety Jobs site is the most comprehensive resource for discovering a career as a School Resource Officer. Use the Career Directory to learn more about the position, and scroll through the latest jobs list to find an open position near you!