Guardian Program: Purpose and Benefits of School Security Training

The Guardian Program is a comprehensive school security training program designed to provide a defensive approach to an active shooter on school campuses. The program aims to equip school staff members with the necessary skills and knowledge to protect students and staff during a critical incident. This article will explore the purpose and benefits of the Guardian Program, highlighting its key features and the impact it can have on school safety.

What is the purpose of the Guardian Program?

The primary purpose of the Guardian Program is to offer ALERRT-based training using dynamic shooting techniques to school staff members. The program was established to meet the requirements of HB3, which allows for an armed person on a campus. By training school staff members to stop an active shooter on a campus, the Guardian Program aims to provide an additional layer of security and ensure the safety of students and staff.

One of the main goals of the Guardian Program is to exceed the requirements of the DPS training program. Participants in the program receive Texas DPS School Safety certification, which demonstrates their proficiency in handling critical incidents on school campuses. The program also offers various levels of handgun and AR training based on the shooter's skill level, ensuring that Guardians are well-prepared to respond effectively in high-stress situations.

In addition to firearms training, the Guardian Program also focuses on providing a comprehensive training program that includes trauma-informed care, CRASE (Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events), and stop the bleed training. These additional training components are crucial in ensuring that Guardians have the necessary skills to provide immediate medical assistance to victims and minimize casualties during an active shooter incident.

The Guardian Program also aims to provide additional training options to meet the 40-hour requirement. This allows participants to further enhance their skills and knowledge in areas such as tactical response, crisis management, and emergency preparedness. By offering a wide range of training options, the program ensures that Guardians are well-rounded and capable of handling various scenarios.

Another important aspect of the Guardian Program is the emphasis on mental toughness and experience with firearms as prerequisites for becoming a Guardian. Potential candidates undergo a psychological evaluation, specifically the MMPI (Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory), to assess their suitability for the program. This evaluation helps ensure that Guardians possess the necessary mental fortitude and stability to handle high-stress situations.

The Guardian Program also places a strong emphasis on teamwork and collaboration. Guardians are encouraged to work together and collaborate with campus law enforcement to effectively respond to an active shooter incident. This collaborative approach ensures that all resources and expertise are utilized to maximize the chances of stopping a shooter with deadly force.

Furthermore, the Guardian Program aims to involve school districts in the decision-making process regarding the number and placement of Guardians on a campus. This ensures that the program is customized to meet the specific needs of each school district, taking into account factors such as campus size, student population, and geographical location.

Additionally, the Guardian Program assists school districts in setting up their own Guardian Program by providing guidance and support. This includes helping with the selection of qualified candidates, conducting scenario training using live sim rounds on campus, and providing annual training to ensure Guardians stay proficient.

Moreover, the Guardian Program emphasizes the importance of implementing security measures on campuses to enhance overall safety. This includes measures such as locked doors, regular safety audits, and the implementation of emergency response protocols. By ensuring that campuses are well-prepared and have robust security measures in place, the program aims to create a safer environment for students and staff.

Lastly, the Guardian Program aims to educate the public about its purpose and benefits. It provides informational resources, such as videos, to raise awareness and promote understanding of the program. By educating the public, the program aims to foster a sense of community support and involvement in school security efforts.

The Guardian Program serves a vital purpose in enhancing school security and ensuring the safety of students and staff. By providing comprehensive training, emphasizing mental toughness and collaboration, and involving school districts in the decision-making process, the program aims to create a proactive and effective approach to active shooter incidents. With its focus on training, preparedness, and community involvement, the Guardian Program is a valuable asset in safeguarding our schools.