The small habit that transforms school safety | Beth Sanborn | TEDxCherryCreekHS

School Resource Officer (SRO) Role & Impact - SROs' actions significantly influence students' perceptions of police, requiring careful consideration of responses to avoid reinforcing negative stereotypes [4] - Building rapport and trust with students is crucial for SROs, achieved through conversation and engagement rather than authoritarian approaches [5][6] - SROs should prioritize non-verbal communication, ensuring their body language and tone convey safety and approachability [6] - Establishing individual relationships with students fosters a safer and more welcoming school environment [11] Building Relationships & Communication - Using students' names is a simple yet powerful gesture that builds trust and shows students they are valued [7][8] - Consistent interaction lays the foundation for solid, lasting relationships between SROs and students [8] - Communication should be prioritized over simply talking at students, fostering an environment where students feel comfortable seeking help [10][11] - SROs should actively learn about students' lives, including their friends, relationships, and passions, to facilitate easier communication, especially during difficult times [9][10]