School-Law Enforcement Partnerships Module I.

Transcript:School-Law Enforcement Partnerships Module I.:
School-Law Enforcement Partnerships Module I. Establishing and Implementing Partnerships Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services Module I Establishing the school-law enforcement partnership at school division/law enforcement agency level Steps and considerations in establishing the partnership Elements of Virginia’s model MOU Key partner roles and responsibilities Establishing operational specifics at the school level SLEP Guide – Primary resource Resources “To Learn More” Partnerships: Nationally & in Virginia Nationally, Widespread in past 20 years Between 17,000 and 20,000 SROs in U.S. (U.S. Congressional Research Service estimate) In Virginia, full-time SROs 84% of Virginia’s 315 high schools, 73% of the 337 middle schools, 4% of the 1,111 elementary schools, and 31% of the 198 “other” schools SROs in Virginia – Full & Part-time Source: 2016 Virginia School Safety Audit Survey Results, Virginia DCJS Community Policing in Schools Definition of community policing: A philosophy that promotes organizational strategies that support the systematic use of partnerships and problem-solving techniques to proactively address the immediate conditions that give rise to public safety issues such as crime, social disorder, and fear. Programs are tailored to the schools and employ proactive, solution-based, and community driven strategies to address problems identified at the particular school. In schools: Looks at improving the quality of life by maintaining order, reducing fear, and contributing to an environment conducive to learning and positive youth development. Traditional & Community Policing: Comparison Comparison, continued Rationale for Partnerships Contributions to safe and supportive schools Safe and Supportive Schools Model – 3 main elements Contributions of SLEPs to Safe and Supportive Schools SROs bring expertise of a public safety specialist. immediate response to life-threatening situations laws are enforced when illegal activities occur collaboration to resolve problems that threaten the safety of schools presence has deterrent effect on illegal and disruptive behavior and communicates that the school and larger community have made school safety a priority. SROs reinforce clear expectations for appropriate behavior through enforcement of laws, law-related education, and involvement of students in crime prevention activities. Helps schools to focus on their central mission - educating - by reducing crime and violence in and around schools and reducing victimization and fear. Reduce crime & increase perceptions of safety so school leaders can focus more effectively on their central instructional leadership role. Evidence Supporting SLEPs SLEPs are popular and perceived as effective: Increase feelings of safety among students, teachers, and administrators Deter aggressive behavior, and empower school staff