Spring 2020–2021 School Resource Officer School Security Officer Incentive Grant Program (New Positions)

The Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) is offering a new cycle of state grants through the School Resource Officer Grants Program and Fund to establish new School Resource Officer (SRO) positions in local law enforcement agencies and School Security Officer (SSO) positions in local school divisions. A primary goal of this grant program is to establish, enhance, and continue the partnerships between local law enforcement agencies and school divisions. The application deadline is February 28, 2020, with up to a 48-month grant period of July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2024 (providing funding remains available).

These guidelines contain the rules and requirements governing the School Resource Officer Grants Program and Fund, links to the required grant application forms, and instructions for completing and submitting your application.

A “School Resource Officer” means a certified law enforcement officer hired by a local law enforcement agency to provide law enforcement and security services to Virginia public schools.  An SRO may be a full-time or part-time employee.

A “School Security Officer” is defined as an individual who is employed by a local school board for the purpose of maintaining order and discipline, preventing crime, investigating violations of school board policies, and detaining students violating the law or school board policies on school property or at school-sponsored events. A SSO may be a full-time or part-time employee.  Localities are encouraged to consider School Security Officer positions when additional security presence is merited yet the full functions of a School Resource Officer may not be necessary.