The job of a school security guard can be a busy one. There are many tasks involved and it means more than just watching the crowds in the hallways. The job also requires a good deal of interaction with the students and staff, as well as with visitors and officials.
The job requirements may vary slightly with each state and school district. The role will also be different if the guard is an active duty police officer. The role may also differ as to the type of school – elementary, high school, private, college, etc.
Basic Requirements
Before you can apply for a school security officer position, you will need to be a high school graduate and be at least 18. You also need to be a U.S. citizen. Guards also need to be in good shape because a lot of walking and standing are involved. In some situations, school guards may be required to use physical force against attackers. Because you are not armed, you may want to be knowledgeable of some form of self-defense.
A background check will be needed before being permitted to take classes, as well as a credit check. Fingerprinting is also necessary and you will have to pass drug tests. Good references will also be needed.
You need to be an individual that can stay calm under pressure. Students can be very unruly at times and so can some parents. Being calm under pressure, instead of erupting, can help you successfully deal with some situations without getting physical.
Although it is usually not required, taking some college courses focusing on law enforcement themes can benefit you. It will show a level of commitment to the field and will help you rank a little higher than other applicants.
Training for School Security
After you meet the initial requirements, you will need to get formal security guard training that will enable you to pass the requirements in your state. Most school guards are not armed, so you will not need to take firearms classes. However, training may be needed for this at some schools because the number of armed school guards is increasing. Some schools may require that you also learn how to use metal detectors and work with video cameras.
There is an 8-hour introductory course just to be a security guard. After you have completed them, you can apply for some security guard positions. Beyond that, you will need to complete another 16 hours of courses within the first 30 days after you have been hired. You will probably have to complete another 16 hours within the next 16 months.
Experience
Some states or schools may require that you have some previous experience in security. This may be two or three years as a school security officer, a security guard, a campus supervisor or a law enforcement officer. It may also be necessary to show that you can work well with students.
Classes
After you have completed the courses and become a certified school security guard, you may need to take additional courses from the school district or even from the school where you will be working. Most likely, you will also need to complete more training every year.
Some states require that security officers be registered with the state. You may also be required to know first-aid.
Community Relations
Another thing that school security guards need to do is to show considerable support and interest in the school’s activities. Some schools may require it. This means showing up for school games and other extracurricular activities.
Some Specific Responsibilities
The responsibilities of the position will vary with each state and school district. In most situations, you can expect the following as a minimum:
- Patrol the school campus and areas around the school including unsupervised areas.
- Intervene in activities that may result in injury and encourage students to not participate in such conduct.
- Serve as a role model for students in behavior, attire, and professional grooming.
- Help supervise arrival and dismissal of students as well as breakfast and lunch periods.
- Help students to get to class on-time and ensure a smooth flow of traffic through the hallways.
- Intercept visitors and check for proper identification and escort to exits if not authorized.
- Notify police and emergency personnel when there is an emergency or unusual situation.
- Notify the correct personnel when there is evidence of substance abuse, severe medical conditions, child abuse, potential suicide, alcohol abuse, etc.
- Assist police, fire personnel, and other emergency crews when necessary.
Get Trained Online
The initial 8 hours of courses are similar in each state. Before you take any courses, make sure that they will be accepted in your state. A particular guard company can help you know which courses are the best for you.
If you meet the above basic qualifications, you may want to get your training from Security Guard Training Central. We also have a lot of valuable information about guard requirements from each state and schools located there. Learn more by visiting our website.
