Stoughton officers prepare for crisis response with mental health support focus

The Stoughton Area School District's recent school board meeting highlighted critical discussions surrounding the role of School Resource Officers (SROs) and their impact on student safety and mental health support. A key focus was the SRO's responsibilities during emergencies, particularly how they would prioritize responses in simultaneous crises, such as incidents at both a school and a local store. Officials emphasized that decisions would be made based on the specific threats involved, with the potential for collaboration with county partners to ensure adequate response.

Mental health support emerged as another significant topic. Board members expressed concerns about the mental health resources available to students, noting the importance of training for officers in crisis intervention techniques. While SROs will not provide direct counseling services, they are expected to identify students in need and refer them to appropriate mental health professionals. This approach aims to ensure that students receive the specialized support they require while maintaining the SRO's primary role in safety and security.

Additionally, discussions included the need for clarity in the SRO agreement regarding the expectations for reporting and the SRO's role in fostering a positive school environment. Board members highlighted the importance of tracking the SRO's impact on student belonging and academic achievement, suggesting that the agreement should reflect these goals more explicitly.

As the district moves forward, the integration of SROs into the school environment will be closely monitored to ensure they contribute positively to student safety and well-being. The board's commitment to refining the SRO program underscores a proactive approach to addressing both security and mental health challenges within the school community.