Reimagining School Safety: Removing Police from Our Classrooms

In a recent publication by the US Department of Justice, it was acknowledged that the history of American police strategies is inseparable from the nation's history as a whole. Unfortunately, this history has left bitter legacies that continue to affect our institutions, including our schools. Today, we will delve into the evolving strategy of police presence in K-12 schools and discuss why it is imperative to rethink this approach for the sake of our students' well-being and academic success.

The Troubling Reality of Policing in Schools

As an educator and a parent, I was deeply disturbed when I witnessed a video of a school resource officer using excessive force against a high school girl who had committed a minor infraction. This incident, along with many others, shed light on the prevalence of police in schools, particularly in communities of color, perpetuating the notion that children of color require constant surveillance and control to behave properly.

According to statistics, approximately 58% of schools in the United States had at least one sworn law enforcement officer present during the school week in 2018. However, research suggests that the presence of school resource officers (SROs) does not lead to improved student safety; in fact, it often makes students feel less secure.

Unpacking the Role of SROs in Schools

As an experienced educator, I recall several instances where I successfully de-escalated tense situations without involving law enforcement. Building trust and relationships with students can go a long way in maintaining a safe and supportive learning environment. However, SROs are often called upon for non-violent incidents, leading to the criminalization of minor behavioral issues, particularly among students of color.

The Cost of SRO Programs and Their Effectiveness

While the National Association of School Resource Officers touts the benefits of these programs, the reality is different. SRO programs come at a high cost to schools, averaging $80,000 per officer per year. Yet, they have not proven to be effective in preventing school shootings, with only three successful interventions out of 197 incidents between 1999 and 2018.

Moreover, SROs have been involved in numerous incidents of violence against students, disproportionately affecting Black and Latino students. These interactions often result in serious injuries, arrests, and even deaths, leaving a traumatic impact on the lives of these young individuals.

Shifting the Focus: A New Approach to School Safety

It is evident that school-based policing is not the answer to creating a safe and conducive learning environment for our students. We must reevaluate our priorities and invest in alternative approaches that prioritize equity, inclusivity, and anti-oppressive values.

Firstly, school districts should strive to achieve evidence-based professional student-to-staff ratios, ensuring that students have access to counselors, social workers, psychologists, and nurses who can provide appropriate support.

Secondly, we need to embrace restorative justice and transformative justice practices, which prioritize healing, understanding, and growth over punitive measures. These approaches can foster a sense of community and accountability while reducing incidents of violence and conflict.

Lastly, schools should adopt trauma-informed practices, recognizing that students' behaviors may be rooted in underlying trauma. By creating a safe and nurturing environment, we can support our students in their personal growth and academic success.

Next Steps

It is time to confront the harsh realities of policing in our schools and make meaningful changes to safeguard the well-being and future of our students. By removing SROs and investing in alternative strategies that prioritize care, compassion, and understanding, we can create a safer and more supportive educational environment for all students. Let us come together as equity warriors to advocate for the transformation of our school systems, fostering a future where every child can thrive.