Please note: This training can be found on our Benchmark Learning Management System. To register, create your account or log in here, then either search for your desired training under “Available Training” or return to this page and click "Register" below to be taken directly to the event page. For more information or help, please refer to this page.
Description:
The Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) is proud to offer SRO De-escalation and Safe Control Strategies, a one-day, interactive course designed to support School Resource Officers in effectively managing challenging situations within the school environment. This training blends essential verbal de-escalation skills with practical, safe control strategies to promote positive outcomes, reduce risk, and uphold the safety of students, staff, and officers.
Participants will learn and practice:
• Legal considerations for SROs, including Virginia law, use of force, and liability awareness
• Verbal de-escalation techniques that reduce the likelihood of physical engagement
• Professional presence, stance, and movement fundamentals for safe interactions
• Defensive responses, including blocking, armbar control, and escapes from common assaults (wrist grabs, chokes, headlocks)
• Ground defense skills such as sprawl techniques, trap and roll, punch protection, and safe ground recovery
• Weapon retention fundamentals and basic weapon disarming for school-based encounters
• Safe takedown options and control positions suitable for school settings
By the end of this 8-hour training, participants will leave with practical, integrated de-escalation and control strategies that enhance officer safety, strengthen school partnerships, and contribute to a secure, supportive learning environment.
Intended Audience:
Law Enforcement Officers Only
NOTE: This class is NOT intended for currently certified SSOs or individuals contracted by a private security company to serve as SSOs.
TRAINING TIME AND DETAILS
The training hours will be 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM. Registration will begin at 7:30 AM
PARTIAL IN-SERVICE CREDIT (PIC)
Partial In-service Credit (PIC) will be available.
TRAVEL, LODGING, MEALS
Participants are responsible for their transportation, lodging, and meals.
REGISTRATION & COST
Pre-registration is required. There is no cost to attend this training.
Participants will be required to complete a pre-course application, which must be signed by their school division superintendent or a designee.
Please note that the DCJS registration system does not have the capacity to sort eligible from ineligible registrants. It is the responsibility of the DCJS-assigned course director to review the roster and make a final determination on acceptance into the course. Registrants not accepted will be notified via the email address provided during registration.