2024-12-08-兰德-学校资源干事的作用和影响（英）_20页_201kb

School Resource Officers (SROs) are law enforcement officers assigned to schools to enhance safety, arising from initiatives like the 1994 Gun-Free Schools Act. Since the 2000s, SRO presence has grown significantly in U.S. schools, with most schools reporting weekly security personnel by 2019–2020. Proponents argue SROs reduce crime and improve safety through discipline, security, and mentoring. Critics contend that SRO involvement increases disciplinary actions, referrals to juvenile justice, and arrests, particularly for minority students, contributing to racial disparities in school discipline and the school-to-prison pipeline.

Research on SRO effectiveness is inconclusive. Some studies show SROs can reduce violence and weapon/drug offenses, while others find little effect or increased reporting of issues. SROs are documented to have a disproportionate impact on Black and Latino students, leading to higher suspension and expulsion rates, with no impact from SROs themselves. Students in schools with SROs face more law enforcement contact, potentially affecting educational outcomes. Factors including SRO training, deployment contexts, and school socioeconomic status influence roles.

Despite potential benefits, the presence of SROs incurs costs such as inequality and disciplinary issues. Alternatives to SROs should be explored, and further research on training and deployment is recommended to maximize benefits and minimize harms for all students.