School Programs
The Youth Services Unit works closely with faculty and staff from Virginia Beach’s Public Schools to directly reach students and build positive relationships with young people in our community.
School Resource Officer Program
As part of the Youth Services Unit (YSU), the Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD) has 28 officers serving as School Resource Officers (SROs). These officers are assigned to middle and high schools, serving as a point of contact for teachers, students, and staff. SROs monitor school threats and conduct investigations as needed.
SROs receive regular training on responding to active threats and are augmented by School Security Officers. Our SROs work closely with Virginia Beach City Public Schools to ensure the safety of students, teachers, and staff. Visit the School Resource Officer webpage to learn more.
Public Safety Classes
The YSU also helps with the Public Safety Program at the Technical & Career Education Center. This includes maintaining the program curriculum, scheduling instructors from the police department, and facilitating field trips to police department buildings and sites.
An Achievable Dream
In partnership with Lynnhaven Middle School, the YSU supports the An Achievable Dream program. This program offers additional opportunities to foster educational success, including helping students develop social, academic, and moral skills.
It’s Not a Joke
The Virginia Beach Police Department’s “It’s Not a Joke” program is an educational initiative offered to middle school students that emphasizes the seriousness of school threats and the consequences of making them, even when intended as a joke. The program teaches students about school safety and security measures, the potential legal consequences of threatening behavior, how to recognize warning signs, and the importance of reporting threats or suspicious activity. Students are also introduced to available resources and support services they can access when they or their peers need assistance. Through education and open discussion, the program encourages responsible decision-making, promotes accountability, and empowers students to play an active role in maintaining a safe and supportive school environment.
LEAD (Law Enforcement Against Drugs & Violence)
Law Enforcement Against Drugs & Violence (LEAD) is an evidence-based prevention program designed to educate youth about the dangers of drugs, alcohol, bullying, and violence while promoting healthy decision-making and positive life skills. The program utilizes the Botvin LifeSkills Training curriculum, which focuses on developing effective communication, conflict resolution, peer pressure resistance, and responsible decision-making skills. Through interactive lessons and discussions, trained law enforcement officers provide instruction in middle schools, Renaissance Academy, summer camps, VBPAL programs, and the Youth Police Academy.