Districts and charters in Idaho can now apply for funding to support a School Resource Officer (SRO). Local education agencies who currently lack resources to support an SRO position are encouraged to apply on or before Wednesday, August 14.
The $1.5 million SRO grant was allocated by the Idaho Legislature from the state’s Millenium Fund and will be administered by the Idaho Department of Education. The department anticipates funding for up to 10 SRO positions, one per selected local education agency. The grant provides funding to support the position for three years.
“This is an excellent opportunity for schools that may not have the resources to fund this important position,” said Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield. “I hope schools will consider collaborating with their local police to make full use of the support that an SRO offers educational communities.”
Applicants are asked to provide an MOU created between the district and their local law enforcement agency outlining budget expectations for the SRO, as well as a letter of intent stating potential applicants’ qualifications and training for the position. A member of law enforcement must be included on the grant writing team and districts are asked to provide ongoing reporting on grant spending and activities. Funds cannot be used to replace SRO services already financed by the district and preference will be given to schools and districts in rural areas that can show demonstrated need of an SRO.
Please direct questions to Idaho Department of Education Healthy Students and Schools Coordinator Katie Watkins at 208-332-6959.
