After the tragic events that occurred at Marjory Stoneman-Douglas High School on February 14^th, 2018 several school safety initiatives were established. The Chris Hixon, Coach Aaron Feis, and Coach Scott Beigel Guardian Program, also known as the “Guardian” program is one of many. The legislation became necessary for school districts to meet mandates put forth from the MSD Public Safety Commission. It is named after three school employees who attempted to intervene in the horrific events that took place that day.

A Guardian is an armed school employee that has received a minimum of 144 hours of training from a Florida sheriff’s office that heavily focuses on firearms training. Initial requirements to enter such a program are to pass a psychological evaluation and drug test. Upon successful completion the Guardian may legally carry a firearm on a school campus (previously a criminal act). The Guardian’s role is that of an observer, provide surveillance on campus, and assist law enforcement and school staff in threat assessments. Should a threat become known on campus, the Guardian’s role becomes very similar to law enforcement’s, to take action and stop it.