The Role of School Resource Officers in BHS Schools

School resource officers have become a familiar presence in many districts across the nation and within Oakland County. Bloomfield Hills Schools have two SROs and they play a multifaceted part in ensuring the safety and well-being of students, staff, and the school environment. Their responsibilities span education, investigation, mentorship, and maintaining day-to-day security.

Meet our SROs

Officer Jenn Lower brings a wealth of experience to our district, having been a valued member of the Bloomfield Township Police Department since 2002, including her role as the peer support coordinator and mental health first aid instructor. She was a road patrol officer and served as the court officer for many years. Lower is passionate about being a positive role model for students and making a meaningful difference in their lives.

Officer Tom Riney has accumulated more than 17 years of experience in various departments. His previous roles as a road patrol officer, field training officer, special investigations unit officer, and Michigan State Police Narcotics task force officer have equipped him with a diverse skill set that greatly contribute to the district’s safety and security efforts. Riney is committed to ensuring that students and teachers feel safe to learn.

Maintaining Safety and Security

One of the primary responsibilities of Officers Lower and Riney is ensuring the physical security of the school. By maintaining a daily presence in schools throughout the district, our SROs act as a deterrent to potential incidents, and their familiarity with the school environment allows them to quickly identify and address potential risks. Officers Lower and Riney are crucial in developing and implementing school safety plans and preparing our schools for emergency situations, including participation in school safety exercises.

Collaborating with School Administration

Even with strong safety plans in place, incidents may still occur within schools. When an incident does occur on school grounds, our SROs are often the first point of contact for investigations. They work closely with school administrators to handle these cases within the scope of both school policies and legal requirements. Officers Lower and Riney also serve as a bridge between BHS and our local law enforcement partners, ensuring that incidents requiring further action or legal proceedings are handled effectively. Their role in investigations helps reduce the impact on school staff, allowing educators more time to focus on teaching and administrative tasks. This collaboration extends beyond just responding to incidents — SROs are part of a team that proactively works to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.

Education and Prevention

Our SROs work closely with school administration to identify and lead many safety conversations with students and staff throughout the year. Some topics that Officers Lower and Riney cover are: cyberbullying/bullying, technology safety, stranger danger, and more. These programs help students make informed decisions and understand the consequences of their actions. Our SROs work to inform and equip students with the knowledge and tools needed to make positive decisions for themselves.

A Daily Presence in the School: Building Trust and Mentoring Students

Officers Lower and Riney are embedded in our schools every day. They are a daily presence, walking the halls, interacting with students during lunch periods and recess, and attending school events. This daily immersion allows SROs to develop a deep understanding of the school's culture, the students’ needs, and any emerging concerns.

Consistent presence in the schools allows the SROs to form lasting relationships with students. These relationships are key to creating a positive atmosphere in schools, as students often feel more comfortable confiding in an officer they trust. Their mentorship can have a profound impact, particularly for students who may be facing non-academic challenges. By fostering positive relationships with students, SROs contribute to the overall well-being of the school community.