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Gwinnett County Public Schools

School Safety Officers

Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) is taking another proactive step to improve the safety and security of its students and staff. On Monday, August 11, 2025, the district welcomed School Safety Officers (SSOs) to GCPS elementary schools to provide an additional layer of security and support.

The addition of SSOs builds on the district’s existing safety measures, which include the Evolv weapons detection system, secured entry vestibules, visitor check-in systems, security cameras, Centegix CrisisAlert badges, regular safety drills, and robust student support systems.

SSOs are trained professionals dedicated to maintaining a safe, welcoming environment for students, staff and visitors. Their presence helps deter potential safety risks while also building trust within the school community. Each SSO receives comprehensive training, including instruction from the GCPS Office of Safety and Security and the district’s School Resource Officers (SROs).

At elementary schools SSOs will:

  • Build positive relationships with students and staff to create a sense of trust and connection.
  • Maintain a visible presence during student arrival and dismissal to support safety at high traffic times.
  • Monitor school entrances and common areas throughout the school day to help ensure a secure environment.
  • Conduct frequent safety checks of exterior doors and school perimeters multiple times each day to ensure all access points remain secure.

Families and visitors may see SSOs during morning drop-off, afternoon dismissal, or while walking the campus during the day. 

Middle and High Schools:

  • Starting the week of August 25, School Safety Officers (SSOs) will be assigned to schools as they receive the Evolv weapons detection system.
  • SSOs will support the operation of the system during the school day, after morning arrival, to enhance threat detection and response.
  • Please note that not all schools will have SSOs on August 25—SSOs will be assigned once a school’s Evolv system is in place, starting with high schools, followed by middle schools.

Students, staff, and parents are encouraged to greet their SSO and view them as a resource for safety and support.