An overwhelming number of people signed up to be a “guardian” in the Volusia County school program, causing officials to close the application period early, according to the county sheriff’s office.
Out of 180 applicants, 50 people were immediately cut because they didn’t meet the minimum requirements set by the school board, said spokesman Andrew Gant.
Officials from the school district and sheriff’s office will interview the remaining 130 applicants in the next few weeks, Gant said. Twenty five candidates were interviewed on Tuesday and 14 people are moving on to the next phase of the application process, he added.
School board officials voted earlier this month to hire at least 44 guardians, taking part in the controversial program that aims to deter or stop active shooters on campuses.
After the initial interview, candidates will be fingerprinted, tested for drugs and undergo a background check, Gant said. The background check is the same kind required to be a deputy, which includes a polygraph test and a review of character references.
Final round applicants will also be subjected to a psychological examination, Gant said.
Guardians will be equipped with firearms, ammunition, holsters and magazine pouches that are paid for by the sheriff’s office. The school board will fund web belts, polo shirts and body armor.
Training is scheduled to begin July 2, Gant said. The new school year begins on August 13.
