Jason Stoddard, Director of School Safety and Security at Charles County Public Schools, has been named the inaugural chairperson of the newly established National Council of School Safety Directors (NCSSD). This organization is the first dedicated entity aimed at representing and educating K-12 school safety directors across the United States, and it will also focus on developing a national certification and continuing education program for these professionals.
The NCSSD is set to hold a virtual press conference at 3 p.m. on April 30 to formally announce its formation. The event will feature Texas Congressman Tony Gonzales, a member of the bipartisan School Safety Sub-Committee, as the keynote speaker. Stoddard will introduce the session, provide remarks, and lead a panel discussion with the NCSSD’s founding leadership committee.
Founded by the non-profit ZeroNow, the NCSSD aims to foster collaboration between industry leaders, educational associations, and education partners to develop innovative solutions for school safety and security. ZeroNow is known for its work in promoting safe environments in educational settings through member-based initiatives.
Among its primary objectives, the NCSSD plans to develop standards and certification programs for aspiring school safety directors. Additionally, the organization seeks to create a collaborative network where professionals can exchange resources, best practices, and expertise. Advocacy efforts will also be directed toward securing federal and state legislation to mandate the role of school safety directors in all school systems, alongside securing funding through federal and state grants, or local taxes to support these positions.
A report by the Education Commission of the States in 2022 highlighted the disparity in school safety measures across the country, noting that while 32 states have a dedicated school safety entity, only half require safety training for teachers and staff. School safety directors play a critical role in leading and implementing safety programs, collaborating with local law enforcement, supporting prevention programs, and managing security technology and emergency response plans.
The establishment of the NCSSD is a significant step towards standardizing the role of school safety directors, ensuring they are well-equipped to address various security challenges and enhance the safety and security of school environments nationwide.
