This bill permits school districts in New Jersey to appoint a school security specialist to provide security services within schools. A school security specialist is defined as an individual who meets specific qualifications, including having at least 20 years of law enforcement experience in a supervisory role, being in good health and moral character, and being employed by a licensed security officer company. The bill outlines the necessary steps for appointment, which include undergoing a criminal history check and completing designated training programs. Additionally, it allows for the possibility of a school security specialist carrying a handgun on school premises, contingent upon meeting certain legal requirements.

The bill also establishes the New Jersey School Safety Specialist and School Security Specialist Academy, which will serve as a central resource for training and best practices in school safety and security. It mandates the development of a training program for school security specialists that covers various topics, including emergency planning and active shooter response. Furthermore, the bill amends existing laws to ensure that school security specialists are included in training programs previously designated for safe schools resource officers, thereby enhancing the overall safety framework within educational institutions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:17-43.2, 52:17B-71.8