Increased attention has been given the safety of students and school staff members following highly publicized acts of violence within schools, including the mass shootings at Robb Elementary School in 2022, Sandy Hook Elementary School in 2012, and Columbine High School in 1999. In response to these tragic events, schools have implemented various security measures, including the employment of school resource officers (SROs). SROs are trained law enforcement officers that are typically hired by local law enforcement agencies and assigned to work in schools. In recent decades, the employment rate of SROs has increased exponentially. According to the author, it is important to critically examine the effects of SROs on school climate to make informed decisions regarding their presence in schools. The first role is that of an educator, in which SROs lead programs or presentations to students and staff on topics such as substance use, violence prevention, and conflict resolution. The second role is that of a mentor, in which officers serve as informal counselors and build positive relationships with students. The third role is that of a law enforcement officer, in which officers patrol school grounds, address school-based crimes, and make arrests.