CRM 6050 - Law Enforcement in Schools

Credits: 4

This course explores the presence of law enforcement in American K-12 schools through a focus on School Resource Officers (SROs). Students will survey the history, structure, training, and function of law enforcement in schools. Challenges for and criticisms of SROs will be critically analyzed, including such topics as youth mental health, trauma and disability. conflict resolution, de-escalation, and use of force; net widening and the school-to-prison pipeline; and teaching and mentorship of youth. Best practices for SRO interactions with school personnel, students, families, and communities will be reviewed with particular attention given to the stages of adolescent development.