Ringing the Bell on a New Year: School Resource Officers Prepare for First Day of School

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Fairfax, VA — As summer break comes to an end, students and teachers are not the only ones preparing for the new school year. Fairfax County Police Department’s School Resource Officers (SROs) are eagerly anticipating their first day back in schools across the county.

Since 1995, school resource officers have helped ensure a safe learning environment for students and provide law enforcement resources to administrators. SROs play a vital role in fostering a safe and positive learning environment, building trust with the community, and providing valuable resources to students and staff.

Officers selected for the SRO program receive specialized training from the department, to include:

  • Mental Health Specific Training and Crisis Intervention Training in accordance with established and certified state standards.
  • Disability awareness training.
  • Implicit bias/racial bias training outlining attitudes and stereotypes that affect our understanding, actions, and decisions in an unconscious manner.
  • Restorative justice techniques and the Alternative Accountability Program as outlined in General Order 605, Juvenile Procedures.
  • Cultural Competency Training that is provided to FCPS staff.

FCPD has 51 SROs throughout the county who are assigned to high, secondary, and middle schools. Although a SRO’s primary function is for law enforcement, they also focus on mentoring, educating, and promoting a safe learning atmosphere for all students. When a violation of the law does occur, SROs work collaboratively with school administrators to reduce student interaction with the juvenile system and divert students from the courts when possible.  

Some of our SROs even double as coaches and advisors at their schools. These dual roles enable SROs to interact with students outside of the classroom and help them reach their full potential.

Our SROs’ doors are always open to students. Make sure your children know they can stop by and introduce themselves to their SRO! The FCPD wishes all our SROs, teachers, and students a safe and successful school year.

For more ways to stay connected, please read our blog and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @FairfaxCountyPD.