JCPS looking for more SSOs as it prepares to install weapon detection systems

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- More than a year since it was created, the Jefferson County Public Schools' police force is still short officers as it goes through some restructuring.

The district recently announced former Louisville Metro Police Maj. Todd Kessinger would now head the department. While at LMPD, Kessinger oversaw the Major Crimes Division.

Right now, he's evaluating and assessing the department before making any major changes.

JCPS said Tuesday there are currently 10 school safety officers who respond to incidents and patrol schools by car. Six recruits are about to begin or are in the process of training to become SSOs. Ten sworn officers are also in the department, but not working as SSOs.

There are currently 10 unfilled positions.

Kessinger said there isn't a rush to fill those open positions, and he would look at recruiting current or retired officers who have some training and experience.

"I don't really want to get locked in a situation where we're going to hire 10 people by January because we're gonna take our time and try to choose the right people that fit this job," he said. "I mean I'm confident, comfortable, you know, within a year we'd be able to get fully staffed."

During a Jefferson County Board of Education meeting Tuesday, administrators also talked about weapon detection systems. They will be installed in schools in phases, the first beginning in October at the district's high schools. The second phase will continue into early 2024.

JCPS said its own officers will operate the detectors when students enter the building. But the district will likely need to contract security to help during the second phase as more detectors are installed.

In 2022, state amended a law requiring SROs inside every school. It was understood that districts may not have funds or personnel to provide an SRO in every building. If that is the case, school districts must develop plans to do so with Kentucky's school security marshal.

According to the district's website, JCPS has 165 schools and has hired 26 officers.

In August 2022, JCPS plan was submitted and approved to the Office of the State School Security Marshall.

In the letter of approval it said, "based on the information provided, you have stated that when sufficient funds and qualified personnel are available, a certified School Resource Officer will be assigned to and working full time on-site and in the school building or buildings of each campus in the school district."

JCPS has safety administrators stationed inside all middle and high schools. This position is focused on building relationships with students, and to be a contact inside for schools if there is a potential threat.

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