Katrar

I believe there is seven years difference.

I have generally been very critical of law enforcement over the past couple years. In my opinion there are deep, deep systemic and cultural issues within the profession. Coming from a military background I see far too much similarity between the LE world and the one I left (army infantry). That said, I am thankful that you took the time to write such a cogent and well articulated synopsis of the problems SROs face on the job. Problems that are generated not by the kids, but by other adults. When you routinely place people in scenarios with so many possible bad outcomes, those bad outcomes will quickly begin to accumulate.

Are there things we can do as citizens to promote healthy change in the relationships between SROs and school administrators?

This is a great point, and one that is not pointed out often enough. Atmospheric depletion, Mars scale, is a very incremental thing. It's not like, whoosh, there goes the atmosphere!

In what way is it hard? You describe the event as absolutely accidental, playful, etc. You make a point to highlight that your friend was devastated. But here, and elsewhere, it's very clear that you are not pleased that she is healing and moving on. Have you given any thought as to what you expect her role to be as her life plays out? Should this event define her forever? Have you always been a good friend as she has tried to heal? I'm sure I'll be downvoted, and that's fine, but I'm curious as to why you are not particularly OK with your friend healing from this as well.

How do you perceive yourself while on the job? How do you think most of your fellow SROs perceive themselves?

By that I mean... I have a kid in the public school system. As a parent I hope that any SROs posted to any schools she attends view themselves as a form of social worker in the way they interact with children. Do you see yourself as a cop first, or a first line resource for children first?