School Resource Officer
Role of the School Resource Officer
The School Resource Officer (SRO) Unit represents a premier partnership between the Farmington Police Department and Farmington Municipal Schools (FMS). Led by a Sergeant and two dedicated officers, the unit’s mission is to foster a safe, supportive, and secure learning environment. By combining traditional law enforcement with mentorship and specialized security partnerships, our SROs ensure that Farmington’s students and faculty can focus on education.
A Unique Partnership: SROs and ACSMs
One of the most innovative aspects of school safety in Farmington is the collaborative relationship between our SROs and the FMS Armed Campus Security Monitor (ACSM) program.
- Armed Campus Security Monitors (ACSM): These personnel are retired or former law enforcement officers employed by the school district to provide day-to-day security. Through a formal agreement with the Farmington Police Department, ACSMs are granted special police powers to enforce specific misdemeanor-level crimes occurring on campus, such as minor batteries or criminal damage to property.
- School Resource Officers (SRO): Our SROs work hand-in-hand with the ACSM team. While the monitors handle day-to-day security and minor offenses, SROs focus on investigating more serious crimes, managing complex legal issues, and providing an elevated tier of tactical security and emergency response.
The Role of an SRO
Our SROs follow a nationally recognized "triad" model, serving in three distinct capacities:
- Law Enforcement & Investigation: SROs are the primary investigators for serious criminal activity on school grounds. They work to ensure that the law is upheld while maintaining the unique balance required in a school setting.
- Informal Counselor & Mentor: By building trust through daily interactions, SROs serve as a resource for students. They provide guidance and help resolve conflicts before they escalate into police matters.
- Educator: Our officers visit classrooms to speak on critical topics such as internet safety, substance abuse prevention, and the legal system, helping students make informed choices for their future.
Safe School Initiatives
The SRO unit and ACSMs work together to develop and implement comprehensive safety plans, including:
- Emergency Preparedness: Coordinating and conducting drills to ensure staff and students are prepared for any scenario.
- Threat Assessment: Proactively evaluating potential risks to mitigate them before they impact the campus.
- Community Engagement: Participating in school functions and athletic events to remain a visible, approachable part of the school community.







