School Resource Officer
In 2007, the Loves Park Department began its School Resource Officer (SRO) program. SRO programs across the nation have been founded as collaborative efforts by police agencies, law enforcement officers, educators, students, parents, and communities. The SRO position is partially funded by the Harlem School District.
In 2018, Officer Aaron Johnson was assigned to the Harlem Middle School as the School Resource Officer. Prior to being assigned, Officer Johnson attended a 40-hour SRO training course through NASRO (National Association of School Resource Officers) and was certified by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board as an SRO. Officer Johnson has attended several training courses and recently obtained NASRO certification as an SRO Practitioner. Officer Johnson is also actively involved in the Illinois School Resource Officers Association and currently serves as treasurer for the organization.
In the summer of 2023, the Harlem School District requested that we expand the SRO program to include the elementary schools in Loves Park. Officer Jacob Sarmiento was assigned as an additional SRO. Officer Sarmiento attended 40-hour SRO training and is certified by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board as an SRO.
Together, both officers provide daily service to all schools within Loves Park and have proven they are valuable resources for students, staff, and parents.