Beth Morris was quoted in Special Ed Connection about how school administrators should take time to be clear on the responsibilities of school resource officers (SROs) when it comes to interactions with students with disabilities. 

"They're ultimately responsible for safety," Beth said of SROs. 

SROs may be employed by the school district or a police department so it's important the officers have clear expectations and procedures to follow. It's also important that the SROs and the district's special education staff have a good relationship.

"Make sure they have an understanding of your students and your students' needs, so you're on the same page about your goals for your students with disabilities and what your requirements under the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) are to help meet those students' needs," Beth said. "Make sure you're on the same page."

Beth also discussed the question of discussing student behavior and individualized education programs (IEPs).

"We would only share educational records with other individuals in the school who have a legitimate educational interest," Beth said. "That's the language under FERPA, so we wouldn't share IEPs or other educational records, including behavioral intervention plans (BIPs), with SROs automatically. All decisions need to be made on a student by-student basis."

You can read the full article by clicking here: Ensure SROs Walk Right Beat Regarding Students With Disabilities 

Special Ed Connection is a go-to source for more than 2,500 school districts.