NCJ Number
74148
Date Published
1979
Length
13 pages
Annotation
Based on successful methods used in a Florida county school system, this report discusses factors to be considered when organizing a school security program and details the roles of school security personnel.
Abstract
Because of increases in school crime, disruptions, and delinquency, many school districts have adopted special measures to protect people and facilities. A successful security program must have the cooperation of students, all school personnel, and the community. Initially, the needs of an individual system should be assessed through attitude and victimization surveys as well as examinations of physical plants, educational policies, and administrative procedures. Other considerations include degree of dependence on local law enforcement agencies, personnel policies regarding school security staff, management of the school system, and projected growth of the schools. Security personnel may also be asked to assist with community relations, risk management, fire and accident prevention activities, and restitution programs. With respect to law enforcement, security officers must know school policies and criminal law governing threats to school staff and equipment, enforce security regulations, maintain records on all incidents and procedures, and be responsible for all physical security. A school district's size and crime problems dictate the organization of a security program. In Broward County, Florida, a security director selects, trains, and supervises all security employees. However, when security specialists are assigned to particular schools, they become integral parts of the staff and report to the principal. The specialist is responsible for developing and monitoring all security programs, advising school officials on handling social and athletic events, and investigating incidents. Serious cases in schools are referred to county investigators who also cover schools without a resident security specialist. The investigator determines the facts in each incident and reports them to the principal. If an investigation involves criminal matters, law enforcement authorities are informed. A security patrolman protects designated school areas during nonschool hours and may be hired directly on a full time or part-time basis or rented from a private agency. In Broward County, the security directors and all investigators possess powers of arrest, but they are not armed or uniformed. All personnel above the level of patrolman have law enforcement backgrounds and are given training in human relations and school board policy.