School Police Officer

School Police Officer – The Ellwood City Area School District is seeking a qualified School Police Officer (SPO) to support a safe, secure, and positive learning environment for students and staff. This position serves as a sworn law enforcement officer responsible for enforcing laws, responding to emergencies, and working collaboratively with school personnel and community partners.

The SPO plays a key role in school safety, prevention, and relationship-building with students while contributing to a supportive and proactive school climate.

Key Responsibilities

Law Enforcement & Safety

• Enforce federal, state, and local laws on school property and at school events
• Respond to emergencies (e.g., threats, fights, medical incidents)
• Investigate incidents and coordinate with local law enforcement as needed
• Provide a visible safety presence at school and extracurricular events

School Safety & Prevention

• Conduct routine patrols of buildings and grounds
• Support threat assessment and behavioral intervention processes
• Assist in implementing district safety protocols and procedures

Emergency Preparedness

• Support and implement the district’s Emergency Operations Plan (EOP)
• Participate in drills (lockdown, evacuation, reunification)
• Coordinate with first responders and assist in incident command when needed

Student & Community Engagement

• Build positive relationships with students and staff
• Serve as a resource on safety, law, and crime prevention
• Collaborate with administrators and support staff to address student needs
• Promote a safe, respectful, and supportive school climate

Administrative Responsibilities

• Complete incident reports and maintain accurate records
• Collect and preserve evidence when necessary
• Testify in court as required

Qualifications

Certification & Legal Requirements

• Must meet requirements under Pennsylvania School Code Section 778
• Act 120 Municipal Police Officer Certification or approved School Police training (MPOETC)
• Completion of Basic School Resource Officer (SRO) Course preferred
• Current firearms qualification
• Ability to be sworn in by a Pennsylvania judge

Clearances

• PA Criminal Record Check
• PA Child Abuse Clearance
• FBI Fingerprint Clearance

Education & Experience

• High school diploma required
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred
• Prior law enforcement experience preferred ( 5 years recommended)
• Experience working with youth or in schools strongly preferred

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong knowledge of PA law and school safety practices
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Skilled in conflict resolution and de-escalation
• Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions in emergencies
• Understanding of emergency response and incident command systems

Work Environment

• School buildings and district grounds
• Outdoor and extracurricular events
• Occasional evening or weekend assignments

Why Join Ellwood City?

The Ellwood City Area School District is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment where all students can thrive. The School Police Officer plays a critical role in ensuring students and staff feel secure, supported, and ready to learn each day.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit:

• Resume
• Letter of Interest
• Proof of certifications and clearances

Send application materials to:

John Sovich
Director of School Safety and Security
Ellwood City Area School District
Email: View email address on click.appcast.io

Applications will be accepted until July 28th 2026.