A question frequently asked is "Are the schools so bad that we need a cop there everyday?" The answer is No. The Officer is there as a resource for students, parents, teachers and
administration. The Officer can assist grades K-12 with safety related topics for the elementary schools to issues affecting teens in high school such as use of alcohol, drugs and tobacco, gang activity, and sex. These situations are not only in the schools, but in the community. The SRO program is designed to be proactive. When successful, the program has proven to be a very positive asset to the school and community. And of course, should their be an issue needing the attention of Law Enforcement arise, that service is readily available. In some cases, the simple presence of an Officer is deterrent enough for many bad behaviors.
How does it work, what does an SRO do? The basic concept for the duties of an SRO include creating a positive role model for students, creating a link between law enforcement and the students, and being a resource for parents, staff, administration, and students in regards to law enforcement and community problems. The SRO is also available to investigate crimes that occur on school grounds. The program functions on three levels consisting of law enforcement, student counseling, and law-related education.
Law Enforcement - The SRO is not a school disciplinarian, but does work with
the school administration when a violation of criminal law has occurred. The SRO is
a sworn Police Officer employed with the Rifle Police Department.
Student Counseling - The predominate amount of time the Officer spends in the
school is dedicated to a variety of functions aimed at prevention. Another duty for the
SRO is being a link to other service agencies which provide preventive and
counseling services within the school district. Working hand in hand with the
school administration, the SRO can assist with finding solutions to problems
affecting school age children.
Law related education - Besides being an active law enforcement officer, the
SRO is a teacher. In the classroom, an SRO can present topics with relevance
to the students lives.
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