NYS bill would require more training for school security guards

ALBANY — Security guards working in schools across the state would be required to have school-specific training in areas including student behaviors and bullying, under a bill passed by New York lawmakers Thursday.

Security guards already are required to be certified and licensed by state law. The legislation would require those working in schools to get additional training annually on topics including school-related laws, youth mediation and conflict resolution, cultural awareness, disabilities and special education considerations, crisis prevention, and the state’s anti-bullying law.

The bill comes as schools across the nation and on Long Island in recent years have increased security and training in an effort to address concerns over violent incidents and mass shootings.

"Our guards should be trained not just on active shooting, but also learning about the child," State Sen. Monica Martinez (D-Brentwood), the bill’s sponsor and a former educator, told Newsday. "This is more of a holistic approach of learning how to interact with a child in a school. We’re with them at all times, both security guards, teachers, everyone, and when you really learn to de-escalate situations for children, you're able to prevent things from happening."

The bill does not apply to law enforcement officers or school resource officers, who are trained by their agencies.

The measure was passed in the State Senate on Thursday and approved by the Assembly on Tuesday. It now heads to Gov. Kathy Hochul for her review. 

If approved, the bill would take effect on Aug. 1, 2027.

School districts are required to ensure security personnel are trained to de-escalate potentially violent situations, as well as other school safety programs.

The additional training requirements would be created by various state agencies including the education department, Division of Criminal Justice Services and State Police, as well as local law enforcement, according to the bill. Martinez said she doesn’t expect the bill to increase costs, as it adds a couple of hours on to existing training.

Security guards can work anywhere from stores to airports, but for those working in schools, it’s a little different, bill co-sponsor State Sen. Dean Murray (R-East Patchogue) told Newsday. "You're dealing with kids all day, so you have to be trained in how to be a little more sensitive and understanding as to what their needs are and what they’re going through ... and even how to deal with a rowdy child."

The New York State School Boards Association applauded the measure’s passage by the Legislature.

Our members "want to make sure that those personnel in our school buildings have training that is unique to students in a school setting," Brian Fessler, the association's chief advocacy officer, told Newsday.

The bill also is supported by the State of New York Police Juvenile Officers Association, which trains law enforcement professionals and school security officers.

"We believe that continuing education is essential in every profession, and it is especially important for those who work directly with young people," said Brian Forte, the association’s executive director, adding the group would welcome the opportunity to collaborate in developing the additional training.