This bill establishes provisions for school districts in New Jersey to appoint school security specialists to enhance security services in schools. A school security specialist is defined as an individual who meets specific criteria, 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 mandates that individuals appointed as school security specialists undergo a criminal history check and complete designated training programs before their appointment. Additionally, it allows local boards of education to permit these specialists to carry handguns on school premises, contingent upon compliance with existing firearm regulations.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing legislation to create the New Jersey School Safety Specialist and School Security Specialist Academy, which will serve as a central hub for best practices and training standards related to school safety and security. The academy will develop a certification program for both school safety specialists and school security specialists, providing free training in various relevant areas. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the Department of Education and the Police Training Commission in developing training courses for school security specialists, ensuring that they are well-equipped to handle safety and security challenges in educational environments.

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