Director of Safety and Security (SBO)

Frederick County Public Schools•Winchester, VA

2d•$102,286 - $168,432•Onsite

About The Position

The Director of Safety and Security for Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS) is a leadership position responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing all safety, security, and emergency management policies, procedures, and programs within the division. This role ensures a safe and secure learning and working environment for all students, staff, and visitors by managing division-wide safety and security initiatives, coordinating emergency response plans, and leading efforts to prevent, respond to, and mitigate safety risks. The Director of Safety and Security will work closely with division leadership, local law enforcement agencies, fire and rescue, to develop comprehensive safety plans. The role requires a strong commitment to school safety, proactive leadership, and a collaborative approach to addressing safety and security challenges in a K-12 school environment.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Emergency Management, Public Safety, Education or a related field.
A minimum of 5 years of experience in school safety, law enforcement, emergency management, education or a related field.
In-depth knowledge of school safety protocols, emergency management, and security technologies.
Familiarity with Virginia state laws and regulations regarding school safety and security.
Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with students, staff, community members, and law enforcement.

Nice To Haves

A Master’s degree in a relevant field is preferred.
Certification in school safety or emergency management (e.g., National Incident Management System (NIMS), FEMA, or other relevant certifications) is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Safety and Security Planning and Oversight: Develop, implement, and regularly review comprehensive safety and security plans for the division, ensuring alignment with local, state regulations.
Assess the safety needs of all division facilities, including schools, administrative buildings, and support sites, and make recommendations for improvements.
Oversee the creation and implementation of emergency response plans, including those for natural disasters, active shooter situations, and other crises.
Conduct regular safety audits and risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities and areas for improvement.
Establish and maintain a division-wide safety and security committee, facilitating regular meetings to discuss concerns, share best practices, and review safety protocols.
Training and Professional Development: Develop and lead ongoing safety training programs for division staff, including teachers, administrators, and support personnel, ensuring familiarity with emergency procedures, security protocols, and crisis response strategies.
Coordinate training for students on safety awareness, emergency procedures.
Work with law enforcement, emergency responders to provide training on relevant safety topics.
Collaboration and Partnerships: Serve as the primary point of contact for safety and security-related issues within the division, including liaising with law enforcement, fire departments and other external stakeholders.
Coordinate efforts with local, state agencies to ensure compliance with safety regulations and to leverage resources for division safety initiatives.
Collaborate with the division’s leadership team to align safety and security objectives with broader educational goals.
Crisis Management and Response: Lead or assist in the division’s response to safety incidents, ensuring appropriate coordination of resources, communication, and recovery efforts.
Act as the division’s primary contact during an emergency, working with first responders and coordinating internal response teams.
Participate in drills, exercises, and simulations to ensure preparedness and to evaluate the effectiveness of emergency response plans.
Technology and Security Systems: Oversee the installation and maintenance of security systems (e.g. access control) across district facilities.
Research and recommend new technologies or innovations to improve school safety.
Participate in ongoing training and professional development - including seminars, workshops, and conferences - to remain up to date with evolving safety protocols, technological innovations, and best practices.
Budgeting and Resource Management: Develop and manage the safety and security budget, ensuring the allocation of resources to meet safety needs.
Identify and pursue funding opportunities for safety initiatives, including grants and partnerships.
Policy Development and Compliance: Ensure district compliance with all relevant local and state safety regulations and mandates.
Review and update safety and security policies regularly, ensuring alignment with best practices and legislative changes.
Stay informed of current trends in school safety, including the latest developments in security technologies, laws, and research.
Other Duties: Perform other related duties as assigned by the Superintendent or designee.