Update On Volusia School Guardian Program

Date Added: June 20, 2018 12:57 pm

Andrew Gant
Office of Public Affairs & Media Relations

UPDATE ON VOLUSIA SCHOOL GUARDIAN PROGRAM

Due to the large number of applications received for positions within the new Volusia County Schools Guardian Program, the job posting has been closed. As of yesterday, the School District had received approximately 180 applications.

Through the initial vetting process, approximately 50 of those applicants did not meet the minimum requirements and standards set by the School Board. The remaining 130 applicants will be subject to interviews in the coming days and weeks. The interview panels include School District and VCSO personnel. On Tuesday, 25 candidates were interviewed, and 14 of them are moving forward in the process. Interviews are scheduled to continue this week and next. The initial plan is to hire at least 44 Guardians, although VCSO is prepared to train more.

Candidates who are selected to move forward out of the initial interviews will enter a second phase that includes fingerprinting and drug screening tests as well as completion of the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office supplemental application for employment. VCSO Internal Affairs will be compiling a list of candidates to conduct background checks. This background check, the same type completed for deputies, includes a polygraph and evaluation of character references. The applicants will also be subject to a psychological examination.

The Sheriff’s Office is moving forward with purchasing equipment for the Guardians, including firearms, ammunition, holsters and magazine pouches. The School Board has agreed to provide web belts, polo shirts and body armor.

Training is scheduled to begin July 2.