Q: Should our school have armed uniformed security or resource officers?

A: Every school must make its own determination whether circumstances exist that warrant armed security.

Before you make weapons part of your school security plan, check with a local attorney to determine what laws apply to schools in your state.

If you decide that armed uniformed security or school resource officer is needed, we recommend that you use current or former law enforcement officers or weapons-trained security firms. These professionals:

• Receive hours of weapons training each year.
• Are trained to deal with unruly, violent or mentally unstable people.
• Are more likely to respond appropriately under stressful conditions that involve life-or-death decisions.

Hiring an outside security firm is an option.

A security consultant can help you assess your school's security risks. Ask for recommendations from your local police agency, school system, area businesses, and churches, and always check the consultant's credentials and references before making a decision.

Additional Resources

• School Evacuation and Lockdown: Make a Plan
• Should You Use a Gun to Protect Your School?
• Responding to Violence at School

More Questions?

Do you have a question that wasn’t covered in this article? Submit your question to Brotherhood Mutual’s Legal Assist team.

This information is intended to be helpful. However, it is not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney/client relationship. Every circumstance is different, and an organization's rights and obligations vary by jurisdiction. That's why we strongly encourage you to regularly consult with a local attorney as part of your risk management program. 

The information is accurate as of the date of publication; however, changes in law or regulation over time may affect the accuracy of the information presented.