Director of Safety

Director of SafetyThe Director of Safety serves as a key member of the administrative leadership team, dedicated to cultivating and sustaining a secure, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all students, staff, and community members. In alignment with the Upper Dublin School District's mission to empower every learner to contribute and thrive, the Director of Safety leads the development, implementation, and oversight of comprehensive safety, security, emergency preparedness, and crisis response strategies across all district facilities. The Director fosters collaborative relationships with local law enforcement, emergency services, district leadership, families, and community partners to ensure that school safety practices reflect respect for all individuals.Reports to the SuperintendentWorks cooperatively with the District's administrative, professional, and support staff to perform job responsibilities as outlined.Supervises all District security staff and oversees any contracted services for security.Develop and Implement Safety Policies:Create, revise, and enforce district-wide safety policies and procedures in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations.Periodic review of School Board policies and recommend necessary revisions.Communicate policies and procedures to applicable stakeholders.Emergency Preparedness Planning:Develop and maintain Standard Response Protocols (SRPs) for various situations and coordinate regular drills for all.Provide feedback to building administrators and the Superintendent on the effectiveness of drills.Maintain the District's All Hazards Plan (AHP) and the Emergency Response Plan (ERP).Facilitate District-wide safety meetings and recommend continuous improvement of safety protocols.Crisis Management and Response:Serve as a point of contact for emergency situations, collaborating with the Superintendent on responses and communications.Collaborate with first responders, emergency services, and law enforcement during incidents.Serve as a support for school and department level leaders related to safety and securitySafety Training and Education:Conduct ongoing training for staff and students on safety protocols, crisis response, and situational awareness.Ensure the District maintains compliance with all required safety related training including Act 55.Develop and implement an onboarding plan, inclusive of required training, for all District employed security personnel.Threat Assessment and Risk Management:Serve as a member of district and school threat assessment teams.Conduct risk assessments and vulnerability audits across school facilities and make recommendations to address areas of need.Security Systems Management:Recommend and oversee the installation and maintenance of physical security systems, including surveillance cameras, access control, alarms, and visitor management systems.Incident Reporting and Investigation:Investigate safety-related incidents, accidents, and violations.Maintain accurate documentation and reports for compliance and insurance purposes.Conduct investigations related to residency and provide findings to the Superintendent.Collaboration with Stakeholders:Work with school administrators, teachers, parents, and students to promote a culture of safety and promote a sense of belonging.Serve as liaison with local law enforcement and emergency management agencies.Facilitate the implementation of the Safe Schools MOU with the UDPD.Regulatory Compliance:Ensure compliance with state school safety laws and district policies.Prepare and submit required reports to regulatory agencies.Safety Audits and Inspections:Conduct regular inspections of school facilities to identify hazards or non-compliance issues. Recommend and monitor corrective actions.Budget and Resource Management:Develop and manage the safety department's budget.Procure and maintain safety equipment and supplies.Collaborate with the Business Office and other applicable administrators to review and apply for grants related to safety and security.Student and Staff Welfare:Support programs that address bullying, harassment, and student mental health as part of the overall safety strategy.Serve as a member of the Safe 2 Say Team.Supervise and evaluate District employed security personnel.Coordinate and oversee any contracted security services.Coordinate support from Upper Dublin Police Department when necessary.Performs other duties as assigned by Supervisor or designeeEducation/Experience Requirements:· Familiarity with the demands of school and/or public safety· Strong interpersonal, supervisory, leadership, and organizational skills.· Prior experience in school district safety or security is preferred.Cognitive/Communication Abilities:· Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills to evaluate complex situations, interpret data, and develop effective solutions· Strategic planning and organizational skills to set priorities, manage multiple initiatives, and align resources with organizational goals· Sound decision-making ability using critical thinking, professional judgment, and evidence-based analysis· Knowledge and application of applicable laws, regulations, policies, and compliance requirements· Excellent verbal and written communication skills to convey information clearly and effectively to diverse audiences· Active listening and interpersonal skills to build collaborative relationships, understand multiple perspectives, and foster a positive organizational culture· Ability to facilitate meetings, lead productive discussions, and present information persuasively to individuals and groups· Conflict resolution and mediation skills to address concerns constructively and provide clear direction and feedback to staffPhysical Demands:To successfully perform this position, a person must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The qualification requirements listed above represent minimum levels of educational achievement, training, skill and/or ability necessary. As required under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Other Requirements:· Current Act 34, Act 114 and Act 151 clearances· School Health Form (including physical and TB test)· PDE Form 6004 and Act 168 disclosure forms