Guardian Program

The Tatum ISD Board of Trustees approved its first group of educators for the Guardian Program in January of 2021. Educators are trained and evaluated to carry concealed firearms on school facilities. 

Trustees approved the implementation of the program in January to enhance school safety and protect students from an active shooter.  The program is now in 304 Texas school districts. 

Staff members who qualify for the program must adhere to requirements established by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Guardians must pass the same psychological exam administered to law enforcement personnel. Guardians are trained and evaluated monthly alongside local law enforcement, with the goal of effectively using tactics for denying an intruder entry into a classroom or school facility. 

“As a district, we continually seek ways to enhance student safety and security,” said Superintendent Dr. J.P. Richardson. “After considering the Guardian program for the past two years, we decided that training our team members in the program will create an even safer environment for our students and staff.”

Approved guardians will remain confidential as it is a requirement of the program.