Safe School Officer (Guardian)

Summary:

School Security Guards, serving in the capacity of a Safe School Officer (SSO), are responsible for supporting school-sanctioned activities, for purposes of s. 790.115, and aiding in the prevention or abatement of active assailant incidents on school premises. The primary responsibility is to safeguard the lives of all persons (children and adults) at their assigned schools.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Immediate Threat Response:

• The sole responsibility of an SSO is to safeguard lives at their assigned school. SSOs are trained to immediately respond to imminent threats and are expected to engage and stop the threat/stop the loss of lives.

Daily Exterior Check:

• Conduct a thorough check of the school's exterior upon arrival, looking for suspicious persons, vehicles, packages, or unattended items. SSO will then be required to submit a daily Risk Assessment Report via the Mobile App which immediately notifies Supervisors and Management

Vigilance:

• Remain vigilant at all times, avoiding distractions and maintaining full attention to surroundings and potential threats.

Confidentiality:

• Do not volunteer information regarding assignments or tactics to anyone other than law enforcement personnel or other first responders.

Restricted Use of Devices:

• Do not use cellular phones, computers, or iPads unless communicating with EGPS Management, Law Enforcement, or School Administrators.

Emergency Protocols:

• In case of a family emergency, request a Supervisor to relieve you from your assignment. Never abandon your post without proper coverage.
• For non-life-threatening medical emergencies, notify a supervisor and summon emergency medical services if needed by calling 911.

Restroom Use:

• Use administrative/staff restrooms if available and do not remove any equipment from your belt or holster.
• Professional Appearance:
• Maintain a clean, pressed, and stain-free uniform and shoes. Ensure a professional appearance at all times while in uniform and public view.

Arrest Powers:

• SSOs are not police officers and do not have arrest powers granted by the State of Florida.

Travel and Concealment:

• SSOs can travel to and from home in full uniform without disarming. However, personal business should not be conducted in uniform with a duty belt on unless the firearm is concealed. If an SSO has a concealed firearm license, it is recommended to keep a windbreaker style jacket in your vehicle that can be worn to fully conceal your uniform shirt and firearm in the event of conducting personal business.

Take-Home Vehicle Protocol:

• SSOs in full uniform with take-home vehicles may refuel within a 2-mile radius of the job site without concealing or disarming.

Firearm Storage and Licensing:

• SSOs without a Concealed Firearm License should secure their duty belt in their vehicle's trunk or a gun box.
• SSOs under 21 must disarm to conduct personal business as it is illegal to carry a concealed firearm without appropriate licensure. (It is a Felony of the 3rd degree for aqsany person UNDER 21 years of age to carry a concealed firearm in the State of Florida)
• Note: EGPS expects employees to follow all policies and procedures set forth, as well as State Law to avoid any liabilities. Employees who do not have a concealed firearm license are not permitted by FSS790 to carry a concealed firearm. Possession of a Concealed Firearm without a license in the State of Florida is a FELONY of the 3rd Degree.

EGPS State Mandated Reporting (Florida Law Requirements):

• Notify the county sheriff and the Office of Safe Schools within 72 hours if:
• An SSO is dismissed for misconduct or disciplined.
• An SSO discharges their firearm in the line of duty, other than for training purposes.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Completion of required training for Safe School Officers.
• Minimum age of 21 years preferred; adherence to age-related firearm regulations mandatory.
• Strong situational awareness and ability to respond swiftly in emergencies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to maintain a professional appearance and demeanor at all times.

This job description outlines the key responsibilities and qualifications for the role of Safe School Officer. The ideal candidate will be vigilant, professional, and committed to ensuring the safety of school environments.