School Resource Officer (SRO)

Position Title: School Resource Officer (SRO)
Department: Police Department
Reports To: Patrol Sergeant / Administrative Supervisor
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Location: USD 480 School District – Liberal, KS

The School Resource Officer (SRO) serves as a certified law enforcement officer assigned full-time to the USD 480 school district. This officer works in partnership with school administrators, staff, students, and parents to maintain a safe and secure learning environment. The SRO provides on-campus law enforcement services, builds positive relationships with students, and serves as a resource for crime prevention, safety education, and emergency response planning. This position operates under a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Liberal Police Department and USD 480, which outlines the roles, responsibilities, and expectations of all parties involved.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Enforce federal, state, and local laws within the schools of USD 480.
• Maintain a visible and approachable presence within assigned schools to promote safety and build trust with students and staff.
• Investigate criminal incidents occurring within the school environment and take appropriate enforcement action.
• Collaborate with school administration on issues involving school safety, discipline, and emergency preparedness.
• Conduct presentations and classroom instruction on topics such as drug and alcohol prevention, internet safety, bullying, and other relevant subjects.
• Serve as a liaison between the police department and school officials, students, and families.
• Provide support and guidance to students, particularly those at risk or in crisis.
• Assist in the development and implementation of school emergency plans and participate in safety drills.
• Attend school functions, sporting events, and extracurricular activities when appropriate.
• Prepare detailed reports, maintain records, and testify in court when required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of juvenile law, school safety practices, and law enforcement operations.
• Understanding of laws of arrest, probable cause, and search and seizure in a school setting.
• Familiarity with departmental policies, procedures, and emergency response protocols.
• Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with students, staff, and the community.
• Strong communication skills, including conflict resolution and de-escalation.
• Skilled in handling sensitive situations with professionalism and discretion.
• Capable of serving as a positive role model and mentor to students.
• Able to remain calm and effective in high-stress or emergency situations.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively within a school environment.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must be a certified law enforcement officer in the State of Kansas or able to obtain certification through reciprocity.
• Minimum of three (3) years of law enforcement experience preferred.
• Experience working with youth or in educational environments is highly desirable.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with school personnel.

Requirements:

• Must pass a background investigation, drug screening, and psychological evaluation.
• Position requires the use of City vehicles on City business. Individuals must be physically capable of operating the vehicles safely, possess a valid driver's license and maintain an acceptable driving record.
• This position is subject to the City of Liberal’s Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy which includes one or more of the following: pre-employment testing, post-accident testing, reasonable suspicion testing, and follow-up testing.

Working Conditions:

• Majority of work is performed within a school setting during school hours; occasional evenings or weekends required for school events.
• Subject to exposure to potentially stressful or dangerous situations.
• Requires wearing a department-issued uniform and equipment.

Schedule:

• Follows the USD 480 academic calendar with additional responsibilities as determined by the department and school district.