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The Operations Division (OD) is the largest section of the Department and is responsible for the following:
- School Resource Officer (SRO) Program
- Patrol Services
- Support and Specialized Services Section
- K-9 Unit
- Other functions that comprise the day-to-day operations of the department.
The SRO program represents a proactive strategy in school-based community policing. It is designed to bring prevention and intervention into the schools. Every SRO is a sworn police officer, certified by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and has completed all required Basic Law Enforcement training.
The SRO program is the key to enabling communities and schools to address school violence and other concerns. This program uses both prevention and intervention techniques while using law enforcement as a last resort. By being on campus, the SRO can prevent many problems from happening. When situations do arise, they can identify the problem, address what is taking place, and intervene quickly and appropriately.
The SROs are also trained in Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) and many other critical areas of school and community policing. The role of the SRO varies from police officer to counselor, teacher, coach, and mentor.
The SRO program relies on building and establishing relationships throughout the school community, primarily with students. SROs also work closely with the Office of Mental Health and Crisis Management, TRUST counselors and School Social Workers to address a myriad of issues.
Recognizing the diversity of our District and unique situations within the school community, particularly involving mental health and child developmental issues, it is imperative that our Department have specialized training such as CIT in this arena.
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