School Resource Officers (SROs)
The officers:
- provide a visible and positive image of law enforcement
- are usually seen as friends or mentors to students, rather than uniformed officers
- provide advice and guidance
- can help with instances of bullying and school violence
The SRO program operates as an agreement between the Calgary Police Service, the Calgary Board of Education, the Calgary Catholic School District, the FrancoSud School Board and the Palliser School Division.
The program has operated in Calgary since 1976 and currently serves more than 400 schools across four school divisions.
The program:
- is committed to fostering partnerships among law enforcement, schools and the community
- helps to ensure safe school environments, successful students and productive citizens
SROs have a strong relationship with Crime Stoppers. When tips are related to a high school the SRO is assigned to, the tip will generally go directly to the officer to be dealt with. This partnership helps the officer identify offenders with their knowledge of the students.
Who is my School Resource Officer?
To locate a School Resource Officer, please contact the main office of your school.
If your school does not have a dedicated SRO, report any incidences of bullying to your parents or school administration. They can direct you to a police officer if they feel it is necessary.
School Resource Officer Program Review
There has been a lack of evaluation data on the effectiveness of the SRO program in achieving positive outcomes for all students.
In June 2020, the Calgary Police Service made a commitment to address systemic racism in a Notice of Motion to Calgary City Council. As part of this promise, and following public consultation, the CPS committed to completing a comprehensive, independent review of the SRO program to reimagine and transform police engagement in schools, so all students feel safe and are treated equally.
The review occurred between 2020 and 2023 and included:
- an independent survey from students, parents, teachers, administrators and CPS officers
- virtual events
- webinars
- interviews
- email submissions
- a web portal
- roundtable sessions
More information about the SRO review and the CPS commitment to anti-racism, equity, diversity and inclusion is available at cps-arac.ca.