School Resource Officers

The School Resource Officer (SRO) program was created as a cooperative effort to enhance the partnership between the Lynchburg Police Department and the Lynchburg City School System.  Two of the five positions are funded by state grants.  SRO's operate under a Memorandum of Understanding that was designed by police and school personnel, along with standard police policy.  The purpose of the program is to have sworn uniformed officer's work full-time in the schools to enforce the law and to assist school administration and teachers.  Also, to build positive relationships between adolescents and the police through communication, education, and safety.

SRO's are each assigned to a primary public high school or middle school.  On occasion, an SRO will have to go to other public schools, including elementary schools, to serve in the absence of another SRO.  They are also required to assist with the responsibilities of the Crime Prevention Unit.   Workdays are scheduled to coincide with regular teacher workdays (including city holidays, if applicable) throughout the school calendar year.  Work hours are flexible to accommodate the operating hours of each school, special events, extra curricular activities, and city policy.

SRO's also serve as liaisons for the Lynchburg Police Department.  They must attend regional and state SRO meetings, teach at SRO schools, and attend School Administration/School Board functions.