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SCHOOL RESOURCE UNIT
Making a Difference in our Schools
The School Resource Unit is responsible for providing a variety of police services to the 19 elementary schools, 11 middle schools, and 2 high schools in Lakeland. These services include School Resource Officers, Drug Abuse and Resistance Education (DARE) to all fifth grade students including visitations to K-third grade, and Gang Resistance Education and Training (GREAT) to fourth and seventh grade students in public and private schools.
The Unit also conducts periodic enforcement sweeps for under-aged drinking, unlawful possession of tobacco, as well as coordinates the "Do The Right Thing" awards program for exemplary students.
A total of 8 School Resource Officers (SRO) and 4 DARE/GREAT Officers are assigned to the Unit under the supervision of a Sergeant.
The Lakeland Police School Resource Unit
School Resource Officers wear many different hats during a typical school day. They may be required to investigate on-campus criminal activity, counsel students, attend faculty meetings, make classroom visits or give instructional presentations to classes. SROs must serve simulataneously as educators, role models, and peacekeepers, all while maintaining the highest level of law enforcement professionalism and remaining approachable to even the youngest child. Most importantly, SROs are the first line of defense against school violence.
 "With children and teachers now returning to the classroom for another school year, we should not neglect the role of the School Resource Officers. They are special men and women, and their contributions should not be ignored. If you find yourself in a public school, be sure to thank the teachers and administrators for all they do. But also try to take a moment to find the School Resource Officer and do your part to let those dedicated public servants know you appreciate what they do." - Charles Crist, Governor of Florida
For more information on the School Resource Unit, please contact:
Sgt. Melanie Dixon
Supervisor of School Resource Unit
Office: 863-834-8962
E-mail: melanie.dixon@lakelandgov.net
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