School Police Officer 25 / 26 SY

Indianapolis Public Schools; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Indianapolis Public Schools seeks a dedicated School Police Officer committed to maintaining safety and fostering positive relationships within the school community. This role prioritizes student well-being and offers opportunities for growth through specialized training. Officers will engage actively with students, ensuring a supportive environment conducive to learning.

Benefits

Competitive pay

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Paid time off

Ongoing training

Qualifications

• Focus on safety and proactive policing.
• Strong interpersonal skills are essential.
• Experience with youth preferred.

Responsibilities

• Build rapport with students and staff.
• Utilize alternatives to arrest and de-escalation techniques.
• Respond to emergency situations and disturbances.

Skills

Communication

Conflict Resolution

Mentoring

Education

High school diploma or GED

Indiana Law Enforcement Certification

Job description

At IPS, we believe in the transformative power of education. We work collectively every day to prepare our students for success in the classroom and in life by providing equitable, high-quality educational experiences across our family of schools. IPS is a place to make an impact, grow your career, and ensure every student has access to a high quality education, all while earning a good living in a district on the move. While the work is challenging, it is deeply meaningful and impactful. We seek innovators and trailblazers who bring varying experiences and expertise and share our belief that every child deserves access to an exceptional education. As part of TeamIPS, you'll create lasting connections, find a sense of belonging, and feel supported to make a meaningful difference in students' lives.

In return, no matter your role here, we expect a commitment to excellence and accountability. You'll be held to high standards. Resilience and passion are key-you must be adaptable, handling adversity with flexibility while putting students at the heart of everything you do. Ethical conduct, clear communication, and mutual respect are fundamental. Being a dependable, collaborative team player who builds meaningful relationships is essential.

Together, we are Proving What's Possible by building a community where everyone belongs and each student has the opportunity to fulfill their potential.

A SCHOOL POLICE CAREER IN IPS OFFERS :

A Meaningful Mission :

• More Than Law Enforcement : As an IPS Police Officer, your role extends beyond traditional policing-you are a mentor, a protector, and a partner in education. You build trust, form relationships, and ensure students, staff, and visitors feel safe and supported.
• Community-Centered Policing : You will serve a diverse student population in an urban school district where safety and community engagement go hand in hand. Your work helps shape a positive and secure learning environment where students can thrive.
• Empowering Students and Staff : By establishing rapport, exercising alternatives to arrest, and providing proactive safety interventions, you play a direct role in student success and well-being.

Opportunities for Growth and Development :

• Specialized Training and Professional Development : IPS provides ongoing training in crisis intervention, de-escalation, school-based policing strategies, and trauma-informed practices to help you navigate the unique challenges of policing in an educational environment.
• Career Advancement Pathways : IPS Police Officers have opportunities to grow their careers through leadership development, promotions, and specialized roles within the department.
• Collaboration with Educators and Mental Health Professionals : You'll work alongside school leaders, counselors, and community partners to ensure that safety measures align with student needs and well-being.

Competitive Compensation and Benefits :

• Stable Employment in a District That Values Safety : IPS recognizes the critical role school police play in fostering a productive learning environment and invests in officers who are committed to the success of students.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package : IPS offers competitive pay, health insurance, retirement benefits, and paid time off to support work-life balance.
• Supportive Work Environment : Join a team that values your expertise, prioritizes officer wellness, and provides the tools and resources necessary to do your job effectively.

WHAT WE EXPECT :

Commitment to Excellence :

• High Standards for Safety and Security : IPS expects School Police Officers to uphold the highest standards in maintaining a secure learning environment while demonstrating sound judgment and discretion.
• Proactive Crime Prevention : Officers are expected to exercise alternatives to arrest whenever possible, using de-escalation techniques and restorative practices to support positive student outcomes.

Resilience and Passion :

• Dedication to Student and Community Well-Being : This role requires patience, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to student success. You will serve as a visible and approachable presence, ensuring students and staff feel supported.
• Adaptability in a Dynamic Environment : No two days are the same. Officers must remain flexible, handle challenging situations calmly, and collaborate effectively with students, staff, and families.

Professional Integrity :

• Ethical and Collaborative Practice : Officers must uphold the highest ethical standards, maintain confidentiality, and engage in clear, honest communication with all stakeholders.
• A Team Player Mindset : IPS seeks officers who thrive in a collaborative environment, build strong relationships, and contribute to a culture of respect and accountability.

JOIN US!

Indianapolis Public Schools is more than a workplace-it's a community where purpose, impact, and belonging come together to help Prove What's Possible in your career and in our schools. If you're ready to serve, protect, and empower students in a meaningful way, IPS is the place for you.

SUMMARY OF OPPORTUNITY

Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) is committed to fostering a safe and secure learning environment where students and staff can thrive. The IPS School Police Department plays a vital role in building strong relationships with students, staff, and the community, while also ensuring a proactive and professional approach to school safety.

IPS is seeking dedicated, community-oriented individuals to join our team as School Police Officers. This role requires strong communication skills, sound judgment, and a commitment to student-centered policing. Officers serve as positive role models, respond to safety concerns, and work collaboratively with school leaders to maintain a secure environment. IPS provides opportunities for career growth, specialized training, and a meaningful way to serve the Indianapolis school community.

ROLE(S) - KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - REQUIREMENTS

School Police Officer

Summary :

School Police Officers are responsible for ensuring the safety of students, staff, and visitors while fostering positive relationships with the school community. Officers provide crime prevention, emergency response, and investigative support to maintain a safe and supportive educational environment.

Key Responsibilities :

• Build rapport with students and staff , serving as a positive role model.
• Utilize alternatives to arrest and de-escalation techniques to promote positive student outcomes.
• Patrol school buildings and grounds , ensuring a visible security presence.
• Respond to emergency situations, disturbances, and security concerns in a timely manner.
• Conduct investigations into incidents occurring on school property, preparing reports as necessary.
• Assist with bus duty, field trips, and school events , ensuring student safety.
• Participate in school safety planning , collaborating with administrators and community stakeholders.
• Maintain confidentiality of reports, records, and sensitive information.
• Attend required training and professional development to enhance policing strategies within schools.

Requirements :

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Previous law enforcement experience and experience working with youth preferred, but not required.
• Must meet Indiana Law Enforcement Training Board physical fitness requirements upon arrival at the academy.
• Must hold or be able to obtain Indiana Law Enforcement Certification.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure, think critically, and de-escalate conflicts.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to build trust within the school community.
• Must be available for various shifts, including school events, evenings, and weekends as needed.

Spanish and / or bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply. This is not a requirement.

FLSA CLASSIFICATION :

Non-Exempt

ELIGIBILITY FOR REMOTE WORK :

Not eligible

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS :

The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an

employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations

may be made to individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Must meet minimum Indiana Law Enforcement Training Board physical fitness requirements upon

arrival at the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy for the Basic Law Enforcement Course. Must

meet minimum Indiana Law Enforcement Training Board physical fitness requirements for veteran

officers when such are adopted.

EEOC STATEMENT :

Indianapolis Public Schools, in accordance with its nondiscrimination policies, will not discriminate

in its programs, facilities, or employment or educational opportunities on the basis of race, color,

religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, pregnancy,

veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression,

marital status, familial status, domestic violence victim status, homelessness or any other legally

recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations, or ordinances.

Indianapolis Public Schools does not tolerate any form of retaliation or bias-based intimidation,

threat, or harassment that demeans individuals' dignity or interferes with their ability to learn or

work.

DISCLAIMER :

Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the

above representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This job description is illustrative only, and is

not a comprehensive list of all essential functions and duties performed by the occupant of this

position. Factors such as regular and punctual attendance are not routinely listed in job

descriptions, but are an essential function.