How Nominations Work
1
Check Eligibility
Review criteria (role, time in service, documentation, references
2
Submit Nomination
Complete the online form; include a short citation and any attachments.
3
Review & Selection
The Awards Committee Evaluates submissions. Recipients are announced at our Annual Conference.
Recognizing Excellence in School Safety
Each year, ASROA honors outstanding Officers, educators , partners , students, and agencies who elevate safety, mentorship, and community on Arizona campuses.
1
Deputy Kerry Schanaman SRO
of the Year
Honors an outstanding School Resource Officer who exemplifies leadership, mentorship, and campus safety.
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Eligible: Any full-time SRO employed by any law enforcement agency within the state of Arizona
The Arizona School Resource Officers Association (ASROA) Officer of the Year award, named in honor of Deputy Kerry Schanaman, commemorates the exemplary service and dedication of law enforcement professionals who serve as beacons of safety and guardians of education within their school communities. This award recognizes officers who embody Deputy Schanaman’s spirit of selflessness, integrity, and commitment to the well-being of students and staff. Recipients of this award demonstrate outstanding leadership, empathy, and proactive engagement in fostering positive relationships with students while ensuring the security of educational environments. The SRO of the year exemplifies the highest standards of professionalism and serves as an invaluable partner in promoting a safe and nurturing atmosphere conducive to learning and growth.
2
School Administrator of the Year
Recognizes a school leader advancing safety, student support, and positive campus culture.
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Eligible: Any Administrator (Principal, Assistant Principal, Dean of Students, etc.) employed by any public, private or charter school within the state of Arizona
The Arizona School Resource Officers Association (ASROA) School Administrator of the Year recognizes outstanding administrators who demonstrate exceptional collaboration and resource utilization to cultivate safe and enriching environments within their school communities. These leaders exhibit a remarkable commitment to fostering positive climates where students, staff, and families thrive. Through strategic partnerships and innovative approaches, they prioritize safety measures while promoting inclusivity and engagement. Their dedication to leveraging available resources effectively ensures that every member of the school community feels supported and empowered to excel. This award celebrates their unwavering dedication to creating environments conducive to learning, growth, and overall well-being.
3
School Safety Advocate of the Year
Celebrates a partner whose advocacy strengthens school–community safety and collaboration.
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Eligible: Any Administrator, Educator, or Security Guard employed by any public, private or charter school or district within the state of Arizona
The Arizona School Resource Officers Association (ASROA) School Safety Advocate of the Year award honors an exceptional staff or school district member who has displayed extraordinary dedication to advancing school safety initiatives and fostering a culture of security within educational settings. This recognition celebrates individuals who go above and beyond their roles to promote comprehensive safety measures, cultivate partnerships with law enforcement, and empower the school community to actively participate in creating a secure environment for all. Whether through innovative programs, effective communication strategies, or collaborative efforts, recipients of this award demonstrate a profound commitment to ensuring the well-being and protection of students, staff, and school community.
4
Student of Excellence
Distinguishes a student for character, leadership, and positive impact in their school community.
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Eligible: Any student registered and attending any public, private or charter school within the state of Arizona
The Arizona School Resource Officers Association (ASROA) Student of Excellence award recognizes a remarkable student whose contributions significantly enhance the positive climate and protective factors within their school community. Whether through acts of kindness, advocacy for positive change, or dedicated involvement in school activities, recipients of this award demonstrate a commitment to creating a nurturing environment where all students feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. Their exemplary efforts inspire others and serve as a testament to the transformative impact of student leadership in building thriving and resilient school communities.
5
Award of Valor
Commends exceptional courage and decisive action in the line of duty.
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Eligible: Any full-time SRO employed by any law enforcement agency within the state of Arizona, any Administrator (Principal, Assistant Principal, Dean of Students, etc.), Educator, or Security Guard employed by any public, private or charter school within the state of Arizona
The Arizona School Resource Officers Association (ASROA) Award of Valor pays tribute to the extraordinary courage and selflessness exhibited by a school resource officer or staff member in the face of danger to protect the lives of students, staff, and others within the school community. This honor recognizes individuals who, in moments of crisis or peril, demonstrate exceptional bravery, quick thinking, and unwavering commitment to the safety and security of those under their care. Whether confronting threats, diffusing volatile situations, or taking decisive action to mitigate harm, recipients of this award exemplify the highest ideals of service and sacrifice. Their heroic actions serve as a beacon of inspiration and a testament to the vital role played by school resource officers and staff in safeguarding educational environments and preserving lives.
6
Award of Appreciation
Thanks organizations and community partners whose support elevates school safety.
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Eligible: Any business, organization, or community stakeholder within the state of Arizona
The Arizona School Resource Officers Association (ASROA) Award of Appreciation honors businesses, organizations, or community stakeholders whose unwavering support and partnership have significantly contributed to enhancing school safety initiatives. ASROA celebrates the invaluable collaboration and dedication of external entities in fostering a culture of security and well-being within educational environments. Whether through financial contributions, provision of resources, or active engagement in safety programs, recipients of this award demonstrate a deep commitment to the safety and protection of students, staff, and school communities. Their steadfast commitment and generosity serve as a powerful example of the collective responsibility shared by all stakeholders in ensuring the security and resilience of Arizona’s schools.
Past Recipients
2025 Recipients
SRO of the Year
Officer Laura Cervantes – Mesa Police Department
Officer Robert Schmuck – Glendale Police Department
School Administrator of the Year
Elyse Torbert – Crismon High School , Queen Creek Unified School District
School Safety Advocate of the Year
Michael Grist – Crismon High School , Queen Creek Unified School District
President's Award of Excellence
Officer Lisa Hale – Peoria Police Department
Award of Valor
Bill Bonanno – Tucson Police Department. Keith Nuanez – McNary Elementary School
Award of Appreciation
TYR Tactical Surprise City Council
2024 Recipients
SRO of the Year
Officer Amy Pfeifer – Tempe Police Department
School Administrator of the Year
Josh Roth – Arizona College Preparatory High School , Chandler Unified School District
School Safety Advocate of the Year
Robert Zamora – Agua Fria High School District
Student of Excellence
Recipient Name – Agency / School
Award of Valor
Officer Daniel Fitzgerald – Phoenix Police Department
Award of Appreciation
Arizona Cardinals Football
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