SY26-27 School Security Officer

School Security Officers (SSOs), in collaboration with school administration, the Lynchburg Police Department, and other public safety partners, help ensure a safe, secure, and orderly environment for students, staff, visitors, and community members at Lynchburg City Schools elementary and alternative schools. SSOs work proactively to prevent crime, investigate violations of the law, and, where appropriate, enforce applicable laws, School Board policies, and school rules within the defined scope of their responsibilities. In addition to supporting physical security, SSOs assist with all aspects of school safety, including emergency preparedness, drill compliance, environmental and facility safety, threat prevention, and campus security during the school day and at school-sponsored events. SSOs support school administrators in maintaining safe learning environments, assist with safety training initiatives, monitor safety concerns on and around school property, and collaborate with staff and public safety agencies to promote a culture of safety and preparedness. Similar to School Resource Officers in the middle and high schools, SSOs are not responsible for student discipline, though they may be called upon to assist school administrators in ensuring that a safe and secure learning environment exists for all.

• Monitor school facilities, grounds, visitors, and activities to identify and address safety, security, and environmental concerns.
• Investigate suspicious behavior, security incidents, and potential violations of law; prepare incident and after-action reports; and report findings to school administration and appropriate authorities.
• Assist with emergency preparedness activities, including drills, evacuations, sheltering procedures, accountability measures, and crisis response.
  Build and maintain positive relationships with students, staff, families, and community stakeholders to promote a safe and supportive school environment.
• Support a positive school climate by modeling effective communication, encouraging appropriate behavior, and referring students to school administrators or support personnel as needed.
• Monitor security systems and equipment, conduct safety and security inspections, and report hazards, maintenance concerns, or equipment issues.
• Provide safety and security support for school-sponsored activities, special events, and other functions as assigned.
• Collaborate with school administrators, staff, law enforcement, and community partners to maintain a safe and secure learning environment.
• Perform other duties related to school safety and security as assigned by the Coordinator of School Safety & Security.

Leadership Competencies

Models Excellent Customer Service
Thinks Strategically
Shows Initiative
Acts Decisively
Communicates Effectively
Works Collaboratively
Resolves Conflict Proactively

Functional Competencies

Strategic Planning

Technical Capabilities

Computer Literacy
Data Analysis and Management
Fiscal Planning and Management
Project Management

• High school diploma or GED required 
• Law enforcement experience and/or military service strongly preferred 
• After being hired this person will be required to successfully complete the Virginia DCJS SSO Certification Program. 
• Preferred former law enforcement officer within 10 years from hire date with the school and retired or resigned from their position in law-enforcement in good standing
• Meets the training and qualifications standards described in subsection C of VA §?18.2-308.016
• Is able to provide proof of training completion in Active Shooter Emergency Response, Emergency Evacuation Procedure, and Threat Assessment within 30 days of employment

• Knowledge of basic methods of providing site security and safety 
• Must possess excellent communication skills and the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, parents, teachers, administrators and business/industry leaders.
• Ability to work with adolescents in maintaining a positive and safe school culture
• Ability to read and adhere to written and oral instructions
• Proficient with teamwork and collaborating with colleagues and administration
• Possess an attuned appreciation for cultural awareness and competency and a staunch commitment to continuously develop insight and proficiencies related to such matters
• Demonstrated ability to keep up with fast paced environments and to multi-task
• Sound judgment and ethical practice
• Strong oral communication skills, human relations and interpersonal skills
• Ability to write incident reports

• There are no supervisory responsibilities for this position.

•  Travel within the division to school sites may be required.