School resource officers tackling different roles this year
It's difficult to be a police officer right now and that includes school resource officers.
Being out of school for many months could cause a strain on students mindsets as they get ready to head back to class.
Executive Director Mo Canady for national SRO’s said their daily task may look different in some school districts.
COVID-19 is not the only issue after months of social unrest.
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“I think we are going to face some things that are unprecedented and, that is concerns over potential up-ticks in violence and, I’m not saying that to scare anyone,” said Canady.
Canady said this pandemic will give SRO's more ways to build trustworthy relationships with students.
“I think there’s going to be a lot of good opportunities for some really good informal counseling and relationship building in that role,” said Canady.
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Cullman County Schools Superintendent Shane Barnette said they are blessed to have a great partnership with their sheriff’s office for help.
“A lot of our SRO’s are dads within the schools. They are well aware of what’s been going on and how their own children have been affected,” said Barnette.
Barnette said their SRO’s will have to deal with emotional and difficult issues with students.
“I highly expect our school resource officers to step up to that challenge. They are great individuals and really for the most part they are very respected by our students and our community,” said Barnette.
Cullman County Schools is expected to start back August 20th.
