In a recent meeting of the Overland Park Public Safety Committee, discussions centered on the role and funding of School Resource Officers (SROs) in local schools, highlighting the evolving nature of school safety and law enforcement in educational settings.

The meeting revealed that both the Shawnee Mission and Blue Valley School Districts employ their own commissioned police officers, forming dedicated police departments within the districts. This arrangement allows for a collaborative approach to school safety, with SROs stationed at high schools alongside district officers. The committee noted that SROs typically remain in their positions for extended periods, driven by a passion for their roles, although they are not locked into these assignments indefinitely. Staffing changes are infrequent, with officers often choosing to stay in their roles for years.

A significant topic of discussion was the criteria for placing SROs in private schools, specifically referencing St. Thomas Aquinas as the only private high school currently served by an SRO. The committee acknowledged the need for clear guidelines regarding the qualifications for SRO placement, emphasizing that the program is not intended to serve as a security service but rather to foster relationships and provide support in educational environments.

Funding for SROs was another critical point, with the committee clarifying that school districts contribute to the officers' salaries based on the hours they spend in schools. This shared funding model allows for flexibility, as SROs can also be requested for additional duties, such as overseeing school events.

The committee also addressed recent policy changes regarding the SROs' involvement in school discipline. Previously, SROs were directed to intervene in disciplinary matters, but the new approach emphasizes that they should refer such issues to school officials. This shift aims to delineate the roles of law enforcement and educational staff, ensuring that SROs focus on safety rather than discipline.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the complexities of defining safety threats within schools, particularly in ambiguous situations, such as a student possessing a knife without intent to harm. The committee recognized the need for clear guidelines to navigate these gray areas effectively.

Overall, the discussions at the Public Safety Committee meeting underscored the importance of collaboration between law enforcement and educational institutions in fostering a safe learning environment while navigating the complexities of school safety and discipline. As these policies evolve, the community can expect ongoing dialogue about the best practices for ensuring student safety in Overland Park schools.