School Safety Officers provide additional safety services.
A School Safety Officer (SSO) is a civilian non-armed employee of the Los Angeles School Police Department that receives additional training and equipment enabling them to provide support for school safety. In working with the School Police, the SSO’s learn much about the duties of the Los Angeles School Police Department and, as such, are a very helpful aid. Some SSO’s go on to become police officers, continuing to provide for the safety of teachers, students, and other staff members within the LAUSD. They also participate in conjunction with School Police Officers in such programs as holiday food drives, school supply giveaways, school dedications, and many other events.
School Safety Officers provide safety services for district locations, Adult Schools, Occupational Schools, and Skill Centers. In 2004, a Parking Enforcement Unit comprised of School Safety Officers was formed to provide improved traffic safety for Los Angeles Unified School District schools and other various facilities. The unit helps to educate drivers about the necessity of designated parking around schools. The Parking Enforcement Unit is also utilized to assist schools with traffic control and enforcement at such events as graduations, evacuation drills, and critical events.