Deputy Sheriff – School Resource Officer

Salary: $61,000

Position Summary:

First and foremost, SROs serve as law enforcement officers whose primary purpose is to “keep the peace” so students can focus on learning. They provide for the peace and security of students, facilities, staff, and all persons on school property. SROs have the authority and duty to handle crimes and make arrests when necessary. If appropriate, alternatives to prosecution may include counseling, deferment, and/or school administrative action.

Essential Functions:

• Fairly and impartially enforce all the laws of the United States, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the ordinances of Louisa County
• Act as a liaison between School Administrators and Command staff at the sheriff’s office
• Crime prevention through presence at the school
• Responds, Investigates, and completes documentation related to complaints.
• Be highly visible throughout the day, as well as at various functions
• Serve as counselors who provide guidance to students and act as a link to support services both inside and outside the school environment
• Serve as positive role models for many youths who may not be exposed to such role models in today’s society
• Endorse and support through staffing the creation of positive interaction between law enforcement and the school community
• Coordinate student activities that promote a safe school environment and serve as liaisons between schools and law enforcement.
• Cultivate positive relationships with students, strengthening each student’s understanding of good citizenship and accountability for his/her actions. Allow SROs to serve as mediators for law enforcement/school-related problems.
• Foster an atmosphere of safety through the enforcement of criminal and traffic laws and provide the timely sharing of pertinent crime-related information between school and law enforcement personnel
• Promote effective communication between the Sheriff’s Office and administrators, teachers, staff, parents, and youth of the school community
• Promote citizen awareness of law enforcement efforts, ensure the peaceful operation of school-related programs, and build student support.
• Provide instruction for classes concerning the criminal justice system, law enforcement, and public safety
• Provide assessment of schools and early identification of high-risk or criminal activity on school properties
• Serve as a resource for violence reduction and avoidance for students.

Requirements:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• At least 21 years of age.
• Possess a valid Va. operator’s license and a good driving record.
• Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) Basic Law Enforcement Officer – certification with 2 years of experience.
• Complete criminal background investigation, including fingerprinting.
• US Citizen
• Psychological Test
• Essential Staff Designation
• Pre-employment physical examination, including drug test.
• Typical hours during the school year are concurrent with school schedules – Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., with some nights and weekends as required for school events.