NJ S719

School districts in New Jersey may appoint "school security specialists" to provide security services, including school district employees, private security company employees, or other qualified individuals.

Candidates must have at least 20 years of law enforcement experience with supervisory duties, be registered security officers under state law, and pass criminal background checks.

Local boards of education may permit school security specialists to carry handguns on school grounds upon superintendent recommendation, provided the specialist holds a valid permit to carry or qualifies as a retired law enforcement officer.

The Department of Education must develop a training program covering multi-hazard emergency planning, active shooter response, advanced firearms, conflict de-escalation, and behavioral issues, with annual refresher training required.

The bill takes effect 180 days after enactment and expands the existing New Jersey School Safety Specialist Academy to include certification and training for school security specialists.