SROs and new safety protocols ready as CMS students head back to school Monday

CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — As more than 141,000 Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools students prepare to return to class on Monday, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Dept. School Resource Officers are ready to greet them, with safety and connection at the top of their list.

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CMPD’s SROs are stationed across CMS campuses, serving as more than just security; they’re trusted adults building relationships with students and staff.

“These dedicated officers work hard to build strong, supportive relationships with students and staff at their schools. They’re there to protect, connect, and help make the 2025-2026 school year a great one!” CMPD shared on social media.

Parents can expect to see SROs during arrival and dismissal, as well as throughout the day.

What parents need to know for Monday

New Safety Protocols

CMS is launching a new district-wide safety procedure called the Standard Response Protocol (SRP) for the 2025-26 school year. Developed by the national “I Love U Guys” Foundation, the SRP is a simplified approach to emergencies, using five actions:

• Hold: Stay in place, clear the halls (used for issues inside the school, like medical events)
• Secure: Get inside, lock outside doors (used for threats outside the building)
• Lockdown: Lock doors, turn off lights, hide out of sight (for threats inside the school)
• Evacuate: Move to another location (fire, gas leak, etc.)
• Shelter: Take cover (weather-related emergencies)

New Parent Portal Available

This year, CMS is offering the Infinite Campus Parent Portal, where parents can:

• View grades, attendance, and schedules
• Complete required school forms online
• Get real-time updates from your child’s school

Parents are encouraged to sign up before school starts and reach out to their child’s school for help if needed.

Immigration Status and School Safety

Families should know:

• All children can attend public school, no matter their citizenship
• CMS does not ask for or track immigration status
• If law enforcement, including immigration officers, visits a school, there are strict protocols in place to ensure legal compliance and student safety, CMS says

If your child has concerns or needs support, school counselors and student services staff are available to help, CMS said. For more information ahead of the first day, please click here.

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