Both security guards and police officers play essential roles in protecting schools, but they are trained for different missions.
✅ A well-trained school security guard is a specialist in defense and prevention. Their focus is on:
• Keeping threats out before they become incidents.
• Controlling access and monitoring suspicious behavior.
• Being a visible deterrent and engaging threats immediately if needed.
✅ A police officer is a generalist trained to respond and protect. Their role includes:
• Investigating crimes and making arrests.
• Responding to active threats after an incident has started.
• Handling broader law enforcement responsibilities beyond the school setting.
The best school security model doesn’t force a choice between the two—it leverages both. A trained, accountable security guard is the first line of defense, while police serve as critical backup for incidents requiring law enforcement authority.
Gold Standard Security isn’t just about reacting—it’s about preventing threats before they reach our students.
Does your school focus more on response or prevention?