Earn Recognition for Your Service and Training: Apply for an SRO Certificate Today

This image shows an SRO in uniform along with text that reads SRO Certificate Program.

The Arkansas Center for School Safety (ACSS), in partnership with the Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), is proud to offer an opportunity for School Resource Officers (SROs) across the state to be formally recognized for their professional development, dedication, and service to their school communities.

Through the School Resource Officer Certificate Program, SROs can now earn one of four certificates—Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, and Senior—that acknowledge their specialized training and their commitment to maintaining safe, supportive learning environments.

Why Earn an SRO Certificate?

School Resource Officers play a vital role in school safety and student success. Through the SRO Triad Model—educator, informal counselor, and law enforcer—SROs build trusted relationships with students and staff while ensuring campus safety.

This certificate program highlights that commitment by:

  • Recognizing your professional growth and expertise in school-based policing
  • Strengthening your credibility and impact within your school district
  • Demonstrating that you have received specialized school safety training
  • Potentially qualifying you for monetary incentives in departments that offer certificate pay

Program Overview

There are four levels of certification:

  1. Basic
  2. Intermediate
  3. Advanced
  4. Senior

Each level must be earned in sequence—officers must apply for and be approved for the Basic Certificate before advancing to the next level.

Applications are reviewed by a committee of law enforcement and education professionals, including representatives from ACSS, DESE, and the Arkansas Safe Schools Association.

Learn more about the requirements for each certificate level.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for the SRO Certificate Program, applicants must:

  • Be a sworn law enforcement officer appointed by an Arkansas law enforcement agency.
  • Be currently serving as a School Resource Officer in an Arkansas school.

How to Apply

  1. Complete the Application Form:
    Download the Application for Award of School Resource Officer Certificate form, available on the Arkansas Center for School Safety website.
  2. Submit Supporting Documentation:
    If required, email supporting materials to Mitch Regnas at [email protected].
    (Note: Training completed through CJI does not require additional documentation.)
  3. Await Review and Notification:
    You’ll receive email notification regarding your application’s outcome within approximately 30 days of submission.

Your Commitment Deserves Recognition

School-based policing continues to grow as one of the most essential areas in law enforcement. The SRO Certificate Program provides a structured path for professional recognition while reinforcing your role as a leader and mentor in your school community.

Take the next step in your professional journey—apply today to earn your SRO Certificate and be recognized for the work you do to protect and empower Arkansas students.