School Resource Officers

The primary role of a School Resource Officer (SRO) is to focus on establishing relationships with students and staff, being a resource and advocate for them, and working to provide a safe environment for everyone. SROs are not RPS employees. Their role in the school setting is outlined in a contract between RPS and the City of Rochester.

SROs are not involved in determining student discipline, and they are not involved in addressing student misconduct that does not involve suspected criminal conduct. RPS staff will consult with SROs to the extent necessary to report any potential criminal activity at school or a school-sponsored event or activity. Potentially criminal behavior may be referred to law enforcement even if it does not involve violent or threatening behavior. For example, theft, intentional damage to property, possession or distribution of drugs or alcohol, and trespassing are examples of behavior that may be referred to law enforcement without necessarily involving violent or threatening behavior. In addition, RPS staff will consult with SROs to the extent necessary to comply with mandatory reporting obligations, such as the obligation to report suspected maltreatment of minors under Minn. Stat. § 626.556. To the extent permitted by State and Federal law, RPS staff may also disclose information to law enforcement in emergency situations where law enforcement’s knowledge of the information is necessary to protect the health and safety of a student or other individuals.