There are many ways to potentially keep kids safe in school. Thank goodness this topic is finally being discussed at great length! In fact, President Obama has called for an increase of school resource officers (SROs), providing funds to hire up to 1,000 SROs across the nation. But we, along with others, have some concerns that this may have some unintended negative consequences. The National Juvenile Justice Network warns of adverse effects that may result from such a practice. Benjamin Chambers describes reasons alternative measures are likely to be more cost effective and successful, such as prevention programs, in his article, Use Proven Approaches (Not Cops) To Keep Schools Safe.
In addition to being costly, more referrals of youth to courts for minor behavioral infractions can be the first step of a youth’s slide into the juvenile justice system. And, there are other, more cost effective ways to promote long-term safety, including:
• Using cost-effective measures such as security cameras, shatter proof glass, and security systems to help ensure safety
• Developing school-based prevention measures and crisis management plans
• Implementing proven prevention programs, which have a wide array of benefits for students and communities
• Creating a supportive, safe environment where children feel they belong and are engaged
• Providing support and mental health services for those who need it
Improving safety and security of children in our schools requires us to examine education on multiple levels, (community, school, and individual). When we consider the biological, psychological and social needs of children we have a more balanced approach, rather than inserting another measure of control. by Katey Collins
