Iowa school police linked to harsher discipline and racial disparities, ACLU report finds
A new ACLU of Iowa study says school resource officers are handling minor infractions, leading to tougher punishments and disproportionate referrals of Black and disabled students.
Using public-record requests and federal statistics, the ACLU of Iowa evaluated the rise of school resource officers in the state, finding 130 officers stationed in 78 districts. While intended to curb violence, the officers were frequently summoned for trivial matters such as vaping, a running child, or perceived disrespect, converting routine discipline into police referrals. Data showed Black students, comprising 7% of Iowa’s schools, represented 13% of referrals and 21% of arrests, and students with disabilities made up 13% of the population but over 25% of referrals and arrests.
The analysis highlighted that roughly 80% of districts lack substantive training standards for SROs and often fail to notify parents when children are detained. Advocates argue the practice fuels a school-to-prison pipeline, a concern echoed by national studies linking increased SRO presence to higher arrest and suspension rates. Following a 2024 school shooting, lawmakers pushed for more armed guards, but the ACLU report questions the safety benefits of such measures.
Why it matters
The findings suggest school police may worsen discipline inequities and contribute to a pipeline toward the criminal justice system.
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