SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER

In the summer of 2002, after having explored the possibility, the police department created the position of School Resource Officer. This position is to be held by a veteran officer.  It places the officer directly in the school even though the officer works for the police.  The officer essentially becomes part of the staff for the school district.  The first school district to have a full time SRO from the department was Mt. Vernon Township High School. Later an officer was added to District 80 to cover all of it's locations.

This is a national accepted program and it provides a variety of services. 

The uniformed officer on the campus acts as a deterrent to possible criminal activity at the school.

The officer is a classroom resource for instruction in various law-related areas.

As a member of the staff the officer works hand in hand with the school to solve any problems that may arise.

The officer also serves as a resource to the teachers, parents, and students for conferences on an individual basis.

They can even deal with individual problems students may have.

This position is intended to break down the barriers between law enforcement and students.

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