Security Services ESP --
Building a Quality Workforce

Federal and State Statutes

Federal and state statutes provide certain protections and impose certain requirements on school districts and school district employees. Security Services ESP should be familiar with both state and federal law, be aware of differences from state to state, and know which federal laws override state laws. Remaining current and informed is a challenge for Security Services ESP, and should be recognized by school boards as a continuing area of need for information, training, and professional development.

Standards and uniformity in laws, regulations, certifications, statutes, registrations, and licensing would provide for more accurate job descriptions, more meaningful professional development, better terms and conditions of employment, more promotional opportunities, and a greatly enhanced professional image for Security Services ESP.

• Federal Law: Certain public school employees are covered under the Fair Labor Standards Act, which provides protection against employer abuse, including discrimination and overtime abuse. Security Services ESP should also be familiar with the federal mandates under the new Patriots Act and Homeland Security Act. Information can be obtained from the U.S. Department of Education regarding what provisions apply in the public school setting for Security Services ESP.

• State Law: The state Departments of Education, Labor, Health and Human Services, and in most states the Attorney General's Office, may all establish some standards and qualifications for Security Services ESP.

• Types of Credentials: Credentials for Education Support Professionals are constantly changing, and the tasks and responsibilities for all categories of ESP continue to evolve. Few school offices had computers 30 years ago, and no one used email. The technology explosion has completely altered clerical services and technical services ESP jobs. Custodians no longer just clean the buildings — they are responsible for the total environmental quality of the building and campus. Mainstreaming of students with special needs has expanded the role of the Paraprofessional ESP. Transportation Services ESP do much more than just drive the bus. And Food Service ESP are responsible for the nutritional health and welfare of each and every student, not just "lunch."

The changes are most dramatic and difficult in Security Services. The increase in stress, danger, violence, and crisis has created a huge change in the skill sets and credentials needed to do the job and to stay safe in the job.

Some Definitions

• Licensure: is the most restrictive form of professional and occupational regulation. It is illegal for a person to practice a particular profession without first meeting state and/or federal licensing standards. Licensure is often referred to as "right to practice."

• Certification: Under certification, the state grants title protection (right-to-title) to persons meeting predetermined standards. Those without certification may perform the duties of the occupation but may not use the title.

• Registration is the least restrictive of all credentials. It usually requires individuals to file their names, addresses, and qualifications with a government agency before practicing the occupation. The employee may be required to post a bond or pay a fee for the registration.

• Training is the specific course work the employee must take in order to obtain the license, certification, or registration. Because each state can develop, pass, and enforce its own guidelines and mandates, current information is essential for all Security Services ESP. Your UniServ office and your state affiliate are always the best first source of information and details.

To Section 3: Violence and Crisis in Schools