School Resource Officer/LEAD

Law Enforcement Against Drugs (L.E.A.D.) is a non profit (501C3) organization, supported by dedicated police officers, committed to protecting our youth and communities from the proliferation of drugs, drug related crimes, peer to peer/cyber bullying and violence. We achieve our goals by collaborating with educators, community leaders, families and L.E.A.D. support organizations.

Law Enforcement Against Drugs (L.E.A.D.) is an educational program taught in the school classroom to prevent or reduce drug abuse drug related crimes, peer to peer/cyber bullying and violence among children and teenagers. The Bernards Township Police Department has two officers assigned to teach LEAD to elementary age students in Bernards Township.

The mission of L.E.A.D. is to provide the leadership, resources and management to ensure law enforcement agencies have the means to partner with our educators, community leaders, and families by providing proven and effective programs to deter youth and adults from drug use, drug related crimes, bullying and violence. L.E.A.D is committed to reinforcing the mutual respect, goodwill and relations between law enforcement and their communities.

The Bernards Township Police Department has one School Resource Officer assigned to Ridge High School. This officer handles investigations, concerns, and other issues related to the community's school-age children. This program is a collaborative effort by the Bernards Township Police, Board of Education, students, parents and community in an effort to reduce crime, drug abuse and violence; therefore creating and maintaining a safe school environment. In addition, the program strives to promote a positive image of law enforcement to our youth and to create strong community partnerships.