Branson district hires highway patrol trooper as first director of school safety

Branson Public Schools created a new director of school safety position to coordinate ongoing efforts to secure its people and campuses.

The district hired Ryan Pace, a trooper with the Missouri State Highway Patrol, for the role. He will start July 1.

Superintendent Brad Swofford said the district has long had employees devoted to safety including school resource officers, administrators and a safety committee. This position is expected to build on those resources.

“As a district, we remain dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure learning environment for all students and staff, and this appointment represents our ongoing commitment to prioritizing school safety," he said.

There was an extensive search for the director with applicants from Missouri and beyond.

Pace currently works for the patrol, where he has been employed for 10 years. He has an associate's degree from Crowder College.

In a news release, Pace said he was honored to work with a team committed to the safety of students. "I look forward to building upon the existing foundation of safety measures and developing comprehensive strategies that create a safe environment for all."

Pace and his wife, Ruby, have two children in the Branson district.

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As director, he will oversee the strategic planning and implementation of safety policies and procedures. He will also work with administrators, community partners and law enforcement agencies to establish a proactive approach to student safety.

His key responsibilities include:

• Assessing and identifying safety risks within schools and implementing measures to mitigate them;
• Conducting regular safety drills and training sessions for staff and students to enhance emergency response and preparedness;
• Collaborating with local law enforcement agencies to coordinate responses to potential safety threats;
• Engaging with school families and community members to create a culture of safety and open communication;
• Recruiting qualified security personnel.