The Department of Public Safety (DPS) is seeking a collaborative, experienced leader to serve as the Deputy Director of the Vermont School Safety Center (VSSC), reporting to the Vermont Homeland Security Unit Director. This role will help shape statewide school safety initiatives, coordinate emergency preparedness efforts, and serve as the Department's primary operational liaison for school safety incidents across Vermont.
This position works closely with the Agency of Education, Vermont State Police, Homeland Security, local schools, and state and federal partners to strengthen school safety, improve crisis preparedness, and support schools before, during, and after critical incidents.
The position will:
- Lead statewide school safety planning, preparedness, and emergency response initiatives.
- Provide 24/7 operational support and guidance during school safety incidents, including threats, emergencies, lockdowns, and other critical events.
- Coordinate with education, public safety, emergency management, and government partners to ensure a unified response to school safety concerns.
- Develop and deliver training, exercises, and technical assistance for school leaders, educators, school boards, first responders, and crisis planning teams.
- Share expertise on school safety best practices, emerging threats, crisis communications, emergency operations planning, and family reunification.
- Lead and facilitate statewide school safety meetings and, after six months, transition into the Co-Chair role for the Vermont School Crisis Planning Team.
- Present to legislative committees, statewide conferences, and stakeholder groups on school safety initiatives and best practices.
- Supervise Vermont School Safety Center staff, including oversight of grants, planning, training, and youth preparedness initiatives.
- Support State Emergency Operations Center activations during emergencies, including planning, coordination, and information sharing.
- Monitor program effectiveness, complete required reporting, and collaborate with leadership to continuously improve school safety programs.
The ideal candidate brings a strong background in emergency management, public safety, education, or a related field, along with experience leading complex programs and building partnerships across organizations. Successful candidates will demonstrate:
- Knowledge of school safety laws, regulations, and national best practices.
- Experience with crisis management, emergency planning, and incident response.
- Experience developing and delivering training programs and evaluating organizational readiness.
- Strong leadership and supervisory skills.
- Knowledge of the National Incident Management System (NIMS).
- Excellent communication, collaboration, and relationship-building abilities.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- The ability to remain calm under pressure and respond effectively during emergencies.
This position includes participation in emergency response activities and requires availability outside of normal business hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, to support critical school safety incidents and State Emergency Operations Center activations as needed.
