Contact Information
Officer Mike Davis
781-944-8200 Ext. 806
The Reading Police Department has School Resource Officers (SROs) who serve in a community policing role within the local schools. The role of an SRO includes ensuring safety, deterring crime, and building positive relationships with students through mentorship and education. Specific officers, such as Matthew Vatcher for elementary and middle schools and SRO Davis for Reading Memorial High School, have been assigned to these positions, with SROs participating in emergency drills and other community-based activities. Roles and responsibilities
- Safety and security: SROs help maintain a safe school environment by having a visible presence and participating in safety drills, such as intruder and evacuation drills.
- Law enforcement: SROs are still sworn police officers who can investigate criminal violations within the school setting and are responsible for responding to service calls.
- Mentorship and education: A key part of their role is to serve as a mentor to students, build positive relationships, and assist with choices that lead to positive outcomes.
- Community liaison: SROs collaborate with schools and the community to address concerns, and they help establish safety plans for the entire school district.