School Resource Officer

Overview

The Billings Police Department is committed to providing a safe environment for students where they can focus and learn to become productive members of our society. A School Resource Officer (SRO) is a law enforcement officer whose primary assignment is within the local schools for the purpose of:

• Enforcement
• Law-related education
• Counseling
• Mentoring students

By working closely with the students, SROs are able to build a rapport with them and are often more approachable, become a resource for questions and advice and help develop positive attitudes. SROs work with teachers, parents and school staff to share responsibilities for crafting solutions to problems other than arrest.

Training

Each School Resource Officer receives training specific to their position in the schools. They attend a 40-hour Basic School Resource Officer Training and a 24-hour Advanced SRO Training. They also attend on-going training to update issues at the schools. Training covers:

• Areas in school-based law enforcement
• Violence prevention
• Substance abuse
• Security and safety
• Classroom instruction