School resource officers and schoolwide PBIS: Considerations for training

Abstract

The number of school resource officers (SROs) is increasing nationwide. Simultaneously, the number of schools adopting schoolwide positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) is increasing and projected to expand in response to the greater focus of the newly passed Every Student Succeeds Act to improve school climate and safety. Without specific guidance regarding the role and function of the SRO situated within a school that has adopted the PBIS framework it is unlikely that the SRO will function in alignment with the PBIS team. The purpose of this article is to offer specific guidance for school leaders by identifying SRO standards and competencies that align with PBIS and sharing a proposed rubric for measuring and shaping the performance of SROs in PBIS schools.