Photo courtesy of Dallas ISD.
Five Molina High School seniors are the first students in Dallas ISD to become fully licensed, Level II, unarmed security guards by Texas Department of Public Safety through the DISD Law Enforcement Pathway program.
The pathway allows high school juniors to earn a certificate of completion which qualifies them for licensing during their senior year after turning 18 years old and receiving a state-issued ID. The Level II licensing is earned through an exam, in addition to the DISD course.
The license allows students to pursue jobs as non-commissioned security officers, commissioned security officers and personal protection officers.
Instructor Earl Felton is a former police officer and first responder, and said the license is not the same as becoming a police officer. Instead, security guards observe and report suspicious activity, he said.
Throughout students’ four years in the Law Enforcement Pathway, they are taught about everything from the basics and history of law enforcement to how to properly use handcuffs, perform building searches and investigate crime scenes. Students are also able to learn about forensics and crime scene details such as blood splatters.
“It’s relieving to know I have options. An opportunity I’ve gained just from being in the law enforcement pathway is the chance to work with the Sheriff County Jail next summer,” said Molina senior Reynaldo.
Molina High School is one of 11 DISD high schools that currently offers instruction in law and public service.
