Did you know that school security guards are often trained in conflict resolution and emergency response? They're responsible for far more than just patrolling the halls, and their importance can often go unnoticed. 

Read on to learn:

• Core duties of a school security guard
• Importance of security personnel in academic settings
• Challenges faced by school security guards
• How the right tech can make school security operations management smoother

Let’s get started by explaining what a security guard is and why they are vital for school safety. 
‍

What is a school security guard?

‍A school security guard is a trained professional responsible for keeping the order within a school environment. School security guards are indispensable for creating a safe and secure learning environment where everyone feels protected. 

Their presence helps deter crime, prevent violence, and respond to emergencies, fostering a sense of calm amidst the hustle and bustle of school life.  
‍

Why are security guards so importantant?

They are the first line of defense against external threats and play a crucial role in managing internal conflicts. By enforcing rules and regulations, they maintain order and discipline, contributing to a positive school atmosphere. 

Looking to hire a good security guard? Check out the best places to find guards in our full article. 
‍

Key responsibilities of school security guards

School security guards are vital for maintaining a safe and orderly learning environment. Here are some of their key responsibilities:
‍

‍Monitoring school entrances and exits

Imagine a school security guard as a gatekeeper, making sure that only authorized individuals enter the school grounds. School security guards meticulously monitor all entrances and exits, checking IDs, verifying visitor passes, and controlling access points. This thorough process helps prevent unauthorized entry, ensuring that students and staff remain safe from outside threats.
‍

Patrolling school grounds

‍Security guard school personnel are constantly on the move. They conduct regular patrols throughout the school grounds, including hallways, classrooms, playgrounds, and parking lots. By maintaining a visible presence, they deter potential troublemakers and guarantee that all areas remain safe and secure. Think of them as the eyes and ears of the school, always vigilant and ready to respond to any situation.

Responding to emergencies

In the face of emergencies, school guards are trained to act swiftly and decisively. Whether it's a fight, an injury, or an intrusion, they implement quick response protocols to ensure the safety of everyone involved. 

They may also provide first aid, evacuate students, or coordinate with law enforcement, depending on the nature of the emergency.
‍

Assisting in conflict resolution

School security guards are often called upon to mediate conflicts between students or between students and staff. 

They use their communication and de-escalation skills to resolve disputes peacefully, fostering a positive and respectful school climate. They act as impartial mediators, helping to find solutions that are fair and just for everyone involved.
‍

Maintaining safety procedures and protocols

‍Making sure that everyone follows safety procedures is paramount. School security guards play a crucial role in maintaining and enforcing these protocols. 

They conduct regular safety checks, monitor surveillance systems, and confirm compliance with safety drills, such as lockdowns and evacuations. By doing so, they help create a culture of safety and readiness within the school community.

If you’re writing a security guard job description, check out our detailed post with examples you can steal (it’s okay, we won’t tell). 

‍

Required skills and qualifications

Let’s take a closer look at the skills and qualifications that school security guards need to perform their duties.

‍We’ll start with certifications and training: 

‍Certifications and training

‍School security guards often undergo specialized training programs that focus on school safety protocols, emergency response procedures, conflict resolution techniques, and legal issues related to school security. 

These programs equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary to maintain a safe and orderly learning environment. Some common certifications might include:

• State-specific security guard licenses: These licenses often involve background checks, fingerprinting, and completion of training courses covering security procedures, laws, and ethics. 
  
  A good example of this is how California handles licenses for school security guards. 

• CPR and first aid certification: School security guards are often the first responders to medical emergencies, making these certifications essential.
  ‍
• Crisis intervention and de-escalation training: This training equips guards with the skills to handle difficult situations and individuals, potentially preventing violence. However, the requirements for this training can differ based on state and district regulations.
  ‍

Physical fitness and observation skills

Beyond certifications, a school security guard needs to be physically fit and possess keen observation skills. Let’s see why:

• Physical fitness: Patrolling the school grounds, responding to emergencies, and potentially restraining individuals requires a certain level of physical fitness.
  ‍
• Observation skills: School security guards need to be observant, noticing unusual activities, potential security threats, and signs of distress in individuals. This helps them proactively address safety concerns before they escalate.
  ‍

Why schools need security guards

‍Here are some key reasons why schools need security guards:  

• Deterring crime and violence: The presence of security guards acts as a powerful deterrent to potential criminal activity, including vandalism, theft, and violence. Knowing that someone is watching can discourage individuals from engaging in harmful behavior.  
  ‍
• Responding to emergencies: In the event of an emergency, such as a fire, medical incident, or intruder, security guards are trained to respond swiftly and effectively. They can initiate evacuations, provide first aid, and coordinate with emergency responders.
  ‍
• Maintaining order and discipline: Security guards help enforce school rules and regulations, promoting a safe and orderly learning environment. They can address disruptive behavior, resolve conflicts, and monitor areas to prevent disturbances.  
  ‍
• Providing a sense of security: School security guards offer a reassuring presence for students, staff, and parents. Knowing that trained professionals are on-site can alleviate anxiety and create a sense of safety.
  ‍

Challenges faced by school security guards

Being a school security guard is not without its challenges. Here are some key challenges that these dedicated professionals face:
‍

‍Managing large student populations

‍Schools can be bustling hubs of activity, especially during transitions between classes or at lunchtime. For security guards, managing large crowds of students moving through hallways and common areas can be quite demanding. They need to maintain order, prevent congestion, and ensure that everyone moves safely throughout the school. 
‍

Balancing safety with student freedom

‍School security guards must have the right to find a balance between safety and student freedom. While their primary responsibility is to protect everyone on school grounds, they also need to avoid creating an overly restrictive or oppressive atmosphere.

This requires strong judgment and excellent interpersonal skills. Security guards need to be able to de-escalate situations, address conflicts fairly, and build positive relationships with students while still maintaining authority and enforcing rules. 

‍

How Belfry is your go-to platform for school security operations 

We've explored the crucial role that school security guards play in maintaining safe and orderly learning environments. But what if there was a way to make their jobs easier and more efficient? 

That's where Belfry comes in. 

Belfry is an all-in-one security management platform designed to simplify processes, improve communication, and provide real-time visibility into daily school security operations.Here's how Belfry can elevate school security:

• Real-time monitoring and response: Belfry's GPS tracking and live activity logging allow for real-time monitoring of security operations. This helps to identify and promptly address potential threats on school premises. 
  ‍
• Increased accountability and visibility: With Belfry's geofencing capabilities, you can verify the presence of security guards on the premises and confirm adherence to protocols. Immediate notifications are sent if a guard leaves their designated area.
  ‍
• Improved communication and coordination: Belfry's integrated communication tools and handy mobile app enable instant messaging and alerts between security personnel, dispatchers, and administrators. 
  ‍
• Simplified scheduling and management: Make the scheduling and management of your security personnel easier with Belfry's automated scheduling, assignments, and shift trades. We help reduce administrative overhead and ensure efficient deployment.

Schedule a Free Demo Today.