High-value safety measure: Hiring a six-figure security guard for Fairfax County's school chief
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) has made an unusual move by hiring a bodyguard for Superintendent Michelle Reid, aiming to enhance her personal safety and security in response to potential threats and the increased security concerns for high-profile individuals in educational institutions [1][2]. The role, titled "executive protection agent," involves protecting Reid across school campuses, public events, official travel, and even private residences [1][3].
While it is not uncommon for superintendents to have drivers or personal assistants, hiring an individual as a dedicated bodyguard is not typical, according to school security expert Ken Trump [2]. The security detail for Reid is expected to expand to a four-person full-time team, providing both uniformed and plain-clothed officers during day and evening shifts [2].
The implied financial impact on the school district's budget includes a significant salary range for this position—between approximately $84,000 and $144,000 annually, tied to a 260-day contract. This hiring decision has sparked concerns and controversy among parents, staff, and watchdogs due to budget shortfalls and cuts affecting teaching and student resources [3][4].
Critics argue that spending on a personal bodyguard for the superintendent amidst budget constraints and declining student outcomes reflects poorly on the district's spending priorities [4][3]. Stephanie Lundquist-Arora, a concerned parent, has been vocal about the hiring, questioning the district's decision to hire a bodyguard while allegedly cutting teachers and experiencing declining student outcomes since Covid [4].
Lundquist-Arora has also referred to Superintendent Michelle Reid as "Queen Reid" and raised concerns about the hiring of a cook and a driver for Reid [5]. However, the school district has not responded to questions about whether the hiring was a direct response to any security threats to Reid.
The executive protection agent's duties include assisting in the implementation of a new emergency response system and weapons screening technology [1]. The full-time position involves signing a 260-day contract, and the deadline for job applications is Tuesday [6]. It's worth noting that Fairfax County Police did not respond to questions about whether any threats had been made against Reid [1].
[1] Washington Post [2] Fox 5 DC [3] WTOP News [4] NBC Washington [5] InsideNoVa [6] FCPS Job Posting
- The unusual hire of an executive protection agent, whose role includes supporting Superintendent Michelle Reid across various settings, has raised concerns among parents, staff, and watchdogs, as it comes amidst budget constraints and declining student outcomes, boosting the debate over the district's spending priorities.
- Despite questioning from critics like Stephanie Lundquist-Arora, who has compared Reid to "Queen Reid" and raised concerns about additional hires such as a cook and a driver, the school district has remained silent on whether the bodyguard hire was in response to any direct security threats against the superintendent.