School Security Officer

School Security Officer (SSO)

Position is responsible for maintaining order and discipline, preventing crime, investigating student violations of school board policies, and detaining students violating the law or school board policies on school property or at school-sponsored events and is responsible solely for ensuring the safety, security, and welfare of all students, faculty, staff, and visitors in the assigned school. Position assists the administrative staff with enforcing policies and procedures for safe and orderly schools at the building level.

Minimum qualifications must possess a high school diploma (or equivalency) with some experience or training in a security related field or any equivalent combination of education and experience that would provide the noted knowledge, skills, and abilities. Be at least 21 years of age. Sixteen hours of training with professional training from a local police department, military, or law enforcement agency in criminal procedures, investigation, security, and safety (preferred).

Knowledge, skills and abilities: Practical knowledge and understanding of child growth and development. Knowledge of instructional procedures and practices. Thorough knowledge of the attendance policies and overall rules and regulations of the York County School Division. General knowledge of police, juvenile, and court procedures. Ability to establish and maintain a professional working relationship with students, staff, and faculty in a variety of situations. Demonstrated skill in investigation, law enforcement, and security techniques (preferred). Ability to write summary reports of security incidents or breaches of established rules and procedures. Focus on building positive relationships, communication skills, crisis de-escalation and physical intervention for safety. Must possess knowledge of, and the ability to apply, standard security procedures and best practices. Must possess the ability to acquire knowledge of School Board policies and procedures and student rights and responsibilities. Security experience in a public school setting preferred. Must possess the ability to read, write, speak and understand standard English. Must have basic computer skills using Microsoft Office programs. Completion of college-level courses in the area of security, psychology, emergency management, or criminal justice preferred. Must possess excellent human relations skills.

Additional requirements: Undergo a background check to include fingerprint-based criminal history record inquiry of both the CCRE and FBI, within 30 days of hire. Once hired, a SSO applicant must complete the following within 60 days: First aid training, as determined by the employing institution, Compulsory minimum entry-level training (provided by DCJS) and pass all portions with an 80% or higher. Once hired, a SSO applicant must complete the Crisis prevention Institute (CPI) training at first available division offering (provided by YCSD). Once hired, a SSO applicant must complete all YCSD required employee training (in-person and online).

Performance responsibilities: Patrols building and grounds with a view toward analyzing and maintaining a close watch on student activities, protecting pupils from outside influences, and preventing trespassers. Maintains security in and around bus and parking areas, halls, entrances and other locations, during student arrival and departure. Detect, investigate and report unauthorized or suspicious persons, vehicles and activities. Monitors assigned areas to prevent the destruction of personal and public property. Keeps records and makes report on all incidents detracting from the safety of the school. Coordinates the use of electronic surveillance cameras and video equipment in promoting the overall safety of building and grounds. Responds appropriately to potential threats to building, staff, or student safety in order to promote a secure learning environment. Maintains a close working relationship with the local police, juvenile court, and law enforcement officials in order to assist in the prevention and detection of juvenile crime and delinquent behavior. Assist administrators and staff in crisis and emergency situations. Supervise and direct pupil movement. Operate metal detectors and conduct searches when requested to do so. May be required to work evenings and weekends as needed to provide security for meetings, student activities, and special programs as requested. Performs other duties as assigned.

Working conditions & physical requirements: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Must have the ability to stand and/or walk for extended periods of time; exhibit manual dexterity to dial a telephone, key a two-way radio microphone, operate a keyboard, and use a lock and key; hear and understand speech at normal levels; speak in audible tones so that others may understand clearly; articulate information in an emergency situation; use physical agility and strength to defend self and detain persons using force if necessary; and have the visual acuity necessary to observe and comprehend student movement. Duties are normally performed inside a school/classroom environment and outdoors in all weather conditions.

Reports to: Building Principal (primary), Assistant Principals (secondary), Associate Director of School Administration & Compliance (Point of Contact) Terms of employment: Ten months a year. Opportunities for overtime for athletic events. Salary according to School Board Pay Plan. Evaluation: Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with school board policy and administrative regulations for evaluation of non-licensed personnel.