Role

The SRO should be looked at as a resource to which the school community can turn. As such, the SRO fulfills three roles by using the TRIAD approach. The officer acts as law enforcement officer, a law related counselor, and a law related teacher. As a law enforcement officer, the primary purpose is to “keep the peace.” As a law related counselor, the officer provides resource guidance to students, parents, teachers, and staff, and acts as a link to support services both inside and outside the school. 

As a law related presenter, the officer will share special law enforcement expertise by presentations in the classroom to promote a better understanding of our laws. Furthermore, the SRO also serves as a positive role model for the students on campus during school hours and off campus at extracurricular activities.

History

The Edwardsville Police Department School Resource Officer Program was initiated in July of 1995. 

Assignments

Sgt. Matt Evers coordinates the School Resource Officer Program, which consists of 3 additional officers.  Officer Rick Thompson is assigned to the Edwardsville Senior High School.  Officer John Arendell is assigned to Lincoln Middle School.  Officer Joy Davis is assigned to Liberty Middle School.

Officer Joy Davis also serves as an instructor for D.A.R.E classes in both of the Middle Schools. This program serves the school district and a total enrollment of approximately 4,500 students on a full time basis.